A key principle by which EWB-Derby operates is engineering for a sustainable future. The sustainability of products incorporates a number of things: including emissions & environmental impact. However, it also includes the legacy the product leaves when it is no longer in use and is disposed of.
Disposal of non-recyclable, and often toxic, waste can be a huge issue both environmentally and commercially -- think asbestos and mercury tilt switches.
But what if the non-recyclable or toxic components of otherwise relatively sustainable products weren't included in the first place? What if thought was put into the product at the design phase to ensure that there was nothing nasty left at the end of it's life.

We're planning a solution.
EWB-Derby are working on an open source web-based design community which is set to look troublesome components on a case by case basis. We are currently working with external partners to refine the logistics of this programme, so please check back for information soon.