From E-waste to E-Worth
Designing a Future Without Disposable Electronics
The issue of electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing environmental concern that mirrors trends seen in fast fashion. Today’s electronics market is saturated with low-cost, low-durability products that often become “waste in transit.” This rapid turnover contributes to the rising number of discarded devices worldwide. My thesis responds to this problem by proposing a service-oriented solution that prevents waste generation through repair and reuse.
System Map and Service Map
I-KÖK (a name combining the English “I” with the Swedish word for kitchen) is a speculative yet realistic service, designed to extend the lifecycle of small kitchen appliances. Rather than focusing on recycling or disposal, I-KÖK emphasizes repair as a key intervention point in the product life cycle. The service provides affordable and accessible replacement parts for the outer components of everyday appliances such as kettles, toasters, coffee machines, blenders, juicers, or microwaves.
Customer Journey and Personas
What sets this project apart is its grounding in a plausible near-future scenario. It assumes a hypothetical yet increasingly likely legal framework in which manufacturers are required to share technical data about their products—such as 3D models of parts—due to increased regulations and initiatives like the European Digital Product Passport and the Right-to-Repair movement. These developments bring a future into our reach, where such transparency is not just possible, but expected. By situating I-KÖK in this future context, the project remains grounded in feasibility while also embracing speculation to provoke thought and inspire change.
Prototyping Replacement Parts
At its core, I-KÖK is a circular design service that operates within the usage phase of a product’s life cycle. By offering customizable and affordable replacement parts, the service encourages customers to repair rather than discard their appliances. The act of customizing parts can create a stronger emotional connection between customers and their devices, promoting a more sustainable consumption mindset. Affordability and accessibility were key goals in the development of the service. One of the main reasons people choose to replace rather than repair appliances is the high cost of repair services or replacement parts. To address this, I selected 3D printing as the primary method of production. The material costs for food-safe filaments are relatively low, and when combined with low labour input—thanks to pre-provided 3D data from manufacturers—overall costs remain minimal. This ensures the access to affordable repairs without compromising on safety or quality.
“If we could build an economy that would use things rather than use them up, we could build a future.”
Dame Ellen MacArthur
Prototyping a Webpage
By challenging industry norms and promoting a shift in people’s behaviour, I-KÖK seeks to contribute meaningfully to a more circular and sustainable electronics culture. The service empowers customers to take control of their appliances’ lifespans, reduces the environmental impact of e-waste, and presents a vision of a future where repair is the default choice—not the exception.
