Goals and Processes

The objective was to guide Weston’s internal decision-making to reduce the environmental impact of the product.

This report is the final proposal for Weston Backcountry's sustainable redesign of their Hero Hands Glove Classic. The report was generated from several months of research into the product design and product. The team utilized several assessment tools including LCA, Cradle to Cradle, & Systems Maps. We also researched different sustainable system strategies and materials.

Drawing conclusions from the combined indicators, our design team prioritized solutions with the most significant impact reduction. This was done with an understanding of any company restrictions and considerations such as economic, geographic, business planning, and strategy goals and feedback from Weston throughout the process.  While transportation from factory to distribution proved to be one of the most climate-impactful parts of the process, changes in this proved out of the realm of possible solutions that fit within their system.

The report gave Weston options that could help them move competitively into a sustainable future with the lead suggestions of developing a resale market, using mycelium leather, and utilizing pre-consumer leather waster. This aligned with goals to reduce the financial costs of their operations, move to sustainable design innovation, and maximize material values.