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Eco-Design – Designing tomorrow’s products Today
In July 2025, our R&D team spent an inspiring day in Bologna at the Re-Sport laboratory of Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, led by Martino Colonna, founder and CEO of Re-Sport Srl.
Surrounded by prototypes and material samples, we witnessed a fundamental shift in product design. Colonna showed us how repairability, disassembly and material choice aren’t afterthoughts but core design principles. We left with our commitment to eco-design stronger than ever.
What is Eco-Design and why does it matter
Eco-design means considering environmental impact at every stage of a product’s journey, from raw materials to end of life. It’s inseparable from the circular economy, where materials cycle continuously through production, use, repair, and regeneration.
Key principles guide our work. Life cycle thinking allows us to understand a product’s full environmental story. Sustainable material selection prioritizes recycled, recyclable or less resource intensive options. Durability and repairability mean designing against planned obsolescence. Design for disassembly ensures products can be easily taken apart for material reuse.
Our approach at NearBy Group
We’re designing components that use fewer raw materials, with lighter parts, modular assemblies disassembled with standard tools and products engineered for repair. We aim to integrate digital product passports that document materials, manufacturing processes, energy consumption and recycling pathways, providing clients the transparency essential for regulatory compliance.
We partner with clients to translate eco-design principles into manufacturable solutions that meet environmental goals without sacrificing performance or cost effectiveness.
Why this matters for our Clients and for the Planet
The EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation requires strict sustainability criteria. Companies preparing now will lead with compliant products. Eco-design reduces waste and emissions, strengthens brand reputation, delivers long term cost efficiency and supports the circular economy we urgently need.
Designing the Future, one component at a time
At NearBy Group, we’re proving sustainability and excellence coexist. Whether you’re redesigning product lines, navigating EU regulations or exploring eco-design possibilities, we’re ready to collaborate.
Get in touch with us to build a more sustainable future, one thoughtfully designed product at a time.
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