Framework for the development of metrics for design for environment (DfE) assessment of products

This paper considers issues facing companies with respect to translating environmental policy into an effective design for environment (DfE) program that can help a company move closer to a sustainability operating framework. Development and use of DfE have been discussed, and conceptual frameworks have been published by the Canadian Standards Association and others. This paper is intended to provide a framework for developing DfE metrics, drawing from the authors' experience in implementing DfE programs in several companies. This framework is not intended to be prescriptive nor absolute. Rather, it should provide development ideas and an understanding of the sequence of events that could help in developing effective DfE metrics.