Integrating Systems and Design Thinking in Sustainable Innovation

Abstract

With large volumes of waste generated by increasing urbanisation and industrial activity, countries across the world are grappling with how to minimize or ideally prevent waste from being transported to increasingly dwindling landfill sites. The crisis of increasing waste as well as little landmass to allow for waste disposal is urging contemplations in waste disposal entities to consider ways in which waste can be eliminated. Recent thinking, in line with achieving sustainable ways of waste disposal, is to dispense with the linear approach of assuming a pathway from the production or manufacturing of products, their use, and ultimate disposal. Instead, a circular approach, in line with sustainability thinking, is beginning to gain traction. The chapter considers the merits of integrating systems thinking and design thinking in sustainable innovation within the waste management sector.