The LCD Paradigm
LCD is an emerging design approach that goes further than its human-centred equivalent by considering in equal measure the sustainable, environmental and social dimensions of its work. It draws a line between micro-level design, such as UX design and product engineering, to the broadest global goals by expanding its stakeholder base from just users to users, non-users, local and global communities, ecosystems and planetary boundaries.
LCD’s panoramic stakeholder view connects the micro-level with global economic, environmental and social goals through alternative economic model scenarios like the Doughnut Economy and the Circular Economy, for example, that emphasize the ecological component of economic development, with a strong focus on results beneficial to the environment.
In the first case, the Doughnut Economy, from economist Kate Raworth’s book, Doughnut Economics, conceives of a doughnut as a safe operating zone between two of its rings – the outer ring of the planetary boundary that is not to be encroached, and the inner ring that is home to a safe and productive existence. The area between these two thresholds within the Doughnut is the livable space where all human activities should be focused.
In the second scenario, the Circular Economy, the brainchild of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, focuses on the idea of circularity and constantly circulating economic resources without creating waste. Resources, either organic or inorganic, are regenerated back into the ecological system or recovered and recycled in an endless loop back into the manufacturing process. Both processes aim to keep raw materials in use for as long as possible to prolong their lifecycle, extend their value and minimize the need for more extraction.
The Doughnut Economy constantly reminds us of the importance of the balance between human development and nature, demonstrating that nature-human coexistence is desirable and possible. The Circular Economy gives us strategies for staying beneath the ecological ceiling that are being adopted by numerous businesses worldwide as the circular economy gains traction. At present, global circularity is at around 10 percent, but it is growing, most notably in Europe. Countries like the Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain and Germany are leading the way with initiatives for recycling and waste reduction and new business investment.