Work

Exploratory study of the integrations of low-tech approaches for sustainability in industrial contexts

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT: Low-tech approaches and practices have developed in recent years, both as a model of strong sustainability in a context of polycrisis, and as an alternative technological discourse opposed to the prevailing techno-solutionism. Various organisations have drawn inspiration from them for the transition or redirection of their system. This article refers to this as “integration of low-tech approaches”. It provides an overview of such integrations in industries through the study of seven cases. Then, it discusses the challenges of their definition, which underpin their sustainability potential.

Source: Proceedings of the Design Society

DOI: 10.1017/pds.2026.10620

Authors: Emile Burckard, Tom Bauer, Tatiana Reyes, Améziane Aoussat

Institutions: Université de Bordeaux, Arts et Métiers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Technologie de Troyes, Laboratoire Conception de Produits et Innovation

Language: English

Topic: Sustainable Design and Development

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: