Big thanks again to all those at CAT who took the time to talk to us this wednesday and show us around.. Jo's overview of all things sustainable was a useful re-assertion of many of the background issues that we've covered in the module with a few additions in there too [which if you didn't note then you'll hear on the .mp3's on the module's timetable].
Additionally, the walk about the site showing practical applications of sustainable thinking was also useful. Issues such as how much energy was used in their construction, transport etc are all very much important in our own field when we're looking at packaging materials. This lateral thinking also tallies nicely with the early session we did on sustainability across different disciplines and how you could be inspired by clever thinking from architecture, 3D product design and other like areas..
Now that you've seen sustainable thinking and living in action at CAT we'd like to get you to reflect on both these experiences, how this might affect your considerations with materials usage as well as some basic observations from you as visual communicators on the existing information design materials at CAT as Ann suggested.
Assessed Blog Task For Wednesday 30th Nov
Please put your individual returned comments below this post in the 'Post a Comment' box. With [your name] first.
Q Materials lightness, suitability for purpose, minimalising of materials use and 'clever or smart' usages of materials were all considerations discussed at CAT with Jo. With your present designs for the WVB package mixed with the research that you've done to date and some of Jo's discussions suggest 3 ways in which you might minimise your materials use with your package.
TIP Do you really need it to use all that cardboard at the moment?
TIP Look at some of the last student designs like Anna Pirvola's idea which had a clear second usage and thinned-down materials use while still cleverly allowing bottles to be packaged & transported if needed..
Ben Hughes
ReplyDeleteQuestion 1 - Minimizing my material use
My current package design does use a bit much cardboard, even though I have given most of it a purpose. Firstly to minimize it I will go back to my design, look at how the package holds itself together and the products in place and remove/simplify sections that don't have as much purpose, such as the sides to the box, if the package can hold the bottles firmly in place then they would not be needed.
Secondly I may alter/add more second uses for the package that uses less space but still keeps the package being used after it has transported the products. If I alter the design of the package this may force me to change my second use, designing shall continue.
Finally with my current design I had planned to use some colour on it, but I am now considering leaving it the colour of the cardboard, this reduces the amount of ink to just logo's and small sections of text making it a lot more green.
Question 2 - Lowering my carbon footprint
Replacing some windows that are not keeping in any heat and are letting the warmth of the whole house go down, which then requires more power to be wasted by keeping it heated.
Having the heating on less, it currently gets used a bit much and as the insulation is quite good it doesn't need to be left on too long.
Question 3 - CAT Signage
One information display that I saw was the board outside the solar dome that discussed the Zero Carbon Britain 2030 target. It is presented on a long board that follows a linear step by step guide of how you can help towards their goal for zero carbon Britain.
I think this could be improved by if possible reducing the amount of text that is on the board, the large arrows split it up well but seeing that amount of writing in small text really puts me off reading it.
Rebecca Wiley
ReplyDeleteQuestion 1 - Material usage
The idea of cutting down on the amount of cardboard is a good idea but if you are restricted by the potential second use of the packaging it may not be feasible.
It is a possibility that other second uses need to be considered, and maybe using the package as it is for the second use with no or little alteration can help visualise this idea, the struggle being with working with the products that are being packaged and sold, to contain them securely within the design.
For my designs so far I have had the idea of using a few simple colour graphics to add a bit of aesthetics to the product. I will continue with this idea but making sure to reduce to just a couple of colours to not be over bearing and less on printing.
Question 2 - To reduce own carbon footprint
Better and thicker insulation in the roof to keep the heat in, as over the years it degrades and become less effective.
Replacing old windows and doors that are letting out heat, with double glazing. This will reduce the need to have the heating on for longer to keep the house warm. It should be stored and fade through out the day slowly.
Question 3 - Example of an information display at CAT
Slate stones placed in front of a line of trees outside with a small piece of information of what you were looking at (identifying the tree) and how it can be used in productive ways.
The graphic element has been created by engraving the lettering into the stone and using water proof paint to make it stand out. And as this centre is in Wales it is a nice touch to have the English and welsh translations seen.
This is using an existing material which therefore helps it naturally blend in with the outdoors of that area.
This display is already natural material and simple for the purpose and the audience.
Thanks Ben and Rebecca.. Useful additional consids here re colour and emerging ideas on pack graphics..
ReplyDeleteQ1.
ReplyDelete3 ways in which I might reduce the materials used in my packaging for WVB?
• I will use as little cardboard as possible using only one piece with folds to secure it
• I will use glueless folds and scoring to reduce the need for glue. I am also considering using hot wax as a way of 'glueing' my packaging together giving it a more traditional, rustic feeling
• I will use only materials which I can use to create a second use - such as cardboard which can be reused as a beer mat and pub games
Initially I was going to use a lot of ink on my packaging to create a package which was a puzzle of Wye Valley, however as this isn't a very eco-friendly way of printing, I have changed my idea so I am making use of the cardboard as the main colour of my packaging. When printing text
• I will use soy-based inks which are eco-friendly and I will also use wax as use of colour instead of ink to give my package a traditional, rustic look.
Q2. What things might I do to lessen my carbon footprint in the future?
• Instead of buying the cheapest light bulbs, when one needs replacing I could consider buying energy efficient light bulbs
• Recently my mums friends have installed solar panels on their roof, taking advantage of the suns light to power their homes. This is something I could consider in the future when I get a home of my own.
• Instead of driving to University to lectures I could consider walking or using public transport, saving energy and reducing my carbon emissions.
• I already ensure that there are clear boxes in my student house to separate different types of recycling
Q3. Discuss an example of a graphic information sign which I saw during the CAT visit...
• An informative sign which I saw during the visit was outside and illustrated true and false facts about recycling. The sign had interactive pieces which lifted up to display answers to facts and questions. I really like the interactivness of the sign as it would appeal to children, and get them thinking about recycling at a young age. However, I feel that there was too much going on, on the sign, making it hard to read and the images of flowers didn't really fit with the recycling theme. I think simple images (maybe cartoon like) of items that can be recycled (in particular related to kids) such as unwanted toys etc would make the sign more appealing. I do however like the use of bright colours as would stand out for children. As the sign is outside and I was walking around the CAT in the rain I feel a simple undercover roof should be placed on top of the sign and the sign height should be also reduced to allow children to reach it and see it at eye level
Some well thought-through comments here Sami. Clear that the variety of references on display and discussed at CAT has struck a chord with you..
ReplyDeleteBlog task Rosanna:
ReplyDeleteQ1. Suggest 3 ways in which you can minimise your materials use with your packaging.
• Using less cardboard: Once I returned from the visit I trimmed down the original net for my packaging. It still looks the same, but I reconsidered how much of the cardboard I could avoid using whilst still keeping my idea the same.
• Using no glue or plastic: By keeping my packaging 100% sustainable I am avoiding adding extra cost and materials which are harder to recycle. Instead of glue I am simply looking into folds and tucks using one sheet of card. I also considered how much extra material folding in particular would use (like in origami) and therefore went on to use simple tuck mechanisms to hold the packaging together. I have had no need for plastic in my design; instead of the plastic covering the windows on the packaging to see the product inside I have simple left it as cut outs.
• The Organic/Rustic look: The packaging should help make it clear that the product is sustainable. Therefore, I am avoiding using block colours for the background of the packaging (this will be kept the colour of the cardboard). Moreover, as well as using less ink in the printing process I would be using vegetable inks which are eco friendly and therefore tie in with the whole concept.
• Second Uses: Although this isn’t exactly minimising the use of materials it is minimising and delaying what you would normally bin straight away. The packaging in my design doubles up as a Ludo board, 4 coasters and from within these coasters the counters are produced. Moreover, The two circular pieces of card which pop out at the front so that the product is visible will become recipe cards to collect. Waste not want not!
Q2. What things could I do to lessen my own Carbon footprint in the future?
• Public transport/ Walk: It is extremely easy to be lazy and drive everywhere. It is often quicker and more comfortable without the hustle and bustle of crowded public transport. However, in a future not so far away it will probably become far cheaper than owning and keeping a car and causes less pollution, thus reducing my carbon footprint.
• Energy efficient light bulbs: they may be more expensive but they generally last longer than your average light bulb. So you are saving waste, energy and, in the long run, money.
• Separating rubbish: I already do this both at uni and at home. But keeping waste separate makes recycling easier and means less goes to landfills.
• Use renewable energy: I know several people who have installed solar panels on their roofs already to reduce their carbon footprint and it is definitely something more people should consider. Although it is expensive at first you will make your money back and more.
• Teaching: As we are thinking of the future, once I have started my teaching career it is up to me to educate the younger generation on the importance of recycling and living a greener existence. Within the workplace there should be a policy of “do not waste”, encouraging everyone (both staff and children) to reduce, reuse and recycle.
• Well insulated home: A well-insulated home is essential in reducing your carbon footprint. For example: if my home is suitably insulated I will not need to use the heating as much during the winter months. It is interesting to see which houses have good and bad insulation in winter snow- those where the roof is covered in snow are well insulated, those without any snow are clearly not.
Rosanna continued:
ReplyDeleteQ3. Describe an information display at CAT. Could it be improved and how?
There were many information boards around the centre. Some I found maybe slightly overcrowded with information but others really caught my eye and attention. These were little pillars scattered around by the entrance to the shop which had a “what was I?” sign above a square of some kind of material. After having a touch and a feel of it you could lift up the flap of material to find out what it used to be before being reused and recycled into the final material. There was one which looked like a blue, glass granite surface lookalike. Yet when you lifted the flap it was, unbelievably, old CDs. I think this was a brilliant idea as it directly showed people the advantages of giving everyday objects the opportunity to be given a second use, not merely to be sent to landfill. I believe it is brilliant especially for children as it is interactive and like a guessing game and allows them to use their imagination. Moreover, through touching, feeling and looking at the recycled material they can explore vocabulary and ideas during their guessing and before they lift the flap to discover what it started out as. However, I only came across these by chance. Hidden away between plants and big display boards full of information on the walls they became a bit lost and easily ignored. Moreover, being just outside the shop means that people may not take any notice anyway as they may be focused on entering the shop and finding something within rather than looking between the plants and display boards. I think it would benefit hugely from being in a separate area dedicated to this idea of mundane everyday objects being given a second use after being recycled and more of them would make it far more interesting and exciting for people, especially children.
Nicole Little
ReplyDeleteways in which you might minimise your materials use with your package.
1. Look at different weights of cardboard to determine the optimum weight for this type of packaging. All of my initial ideas could perhaps be re-worked to use less cardboard. However, Wye VValley did stress that they saw their product as 'premium' therefore a balance needs to be struck between the amount of packaging and how it appeals to the customer when on the shelf.
2. Use minimal ink. I have had several ideas regarding the design, some needing more than others and I will try to minimise the amount of ink used. However, it is my intention to use vegetable inks for printing which is the most environmentally friendly option.
3. Glue-less construction - I would like to produce a box that does not use glue but it is important to ensure the bottles are secure and a suitable alternative fastening will need to be used.
4. The environmental impact - what will happen to the packaging once the contents have been removed? Environmental issues and secondary uses are becoming more and more important in the packaging industry, but some secondary uses may only delay the packaging being binned/recycled by a day or so and it is important to select the most appropriate 'green' solution(s).
what might you yourself do to lessen your own carbon footprint in the future?
1. I will look for FSC certified paper when buying paper for my printer and anything else such as birthday cards etc and look to recycle as much as possible from our household waste. I have even started to note which companies are doing their bit for the environment (eg, mail shots that use recycled paper / alternative ways of promotion such as via twitter etc) and make a mental note of them as my preferred suppliers!
2. I am looking to change my car next year and will look at cars that emit less carbon dioxide and do more miles to the gallon which will benefit not only the environment but also my pocket!
3. I often walk to our local shops rather than take the car and I will look to use alternative methods of transport for activities I do further afield such as taking the train to Birmingham city centre when shopping and to Bristol when visiting my parents.
Describe 1 example of information display that you saw while at CAT
I think there should be more centres like CAT so that people of all ages are educated about alternative ways of doing things and the associated benefits to not only them but also the environment. Hopefully they will then aspire to live in that manner. For example in a home made from mud / insulated with straw / with large south-facing windows / remote control skylights etc. It has certainly made me much more aware and I think all of those alternatives would be fantastic for/in a home. Without the knowledge people won't create the 'voice' that is required for manufacturers to listen and take action. People need to understand and embrace the ideas at CAT in order to create a demand which will eventually lead to supply.
Unfortunately I don't think, when walking around CAT, that you engage with the information available and this is where I think that CAT need to improve. Their information was not really eye catching or each to digest and I think this needs to be the case with emerging technology/ideas, especially with children which Jo said visit the centre a lot. There is a place called 'Conkers' in Derbyshire that has fantastic interactive displays on environmental issues/recycling etc that appeal to both adults and children. Educating with a multi-sensory approach makes learning more fun and displaying information in this way would really make CAT an exciting and interesting destination for all ages.
REPLY FROM KASHKA,
ReplyDeleteQ.1 Suggest 3 ways in which you might minimize your materials use with your package.
- AT THIS STAGE, instead of cardboard I will use PLAY-DOH or PLASTICINE; it is easy to use and mold, and any mistakes can be effortlessly corrected.
- Alternatively I would use MINIMAL use of cardboard(in my instance that would be papier-mache)which means creating on SMALLER SCALE but making sure that it is still clearly understood by the audience.
- Apart from VISUALS, perhaps the DESCRIPTION of the design would play bigger part as some recipients would prefer more explanatory details in order to visualize the outcome.
- My design requires NO GLUE, therefore no glue will be used
- NO DYE will be used AT ALL now nor at the later stage, therefore more than likely each packaging would vary - but that is the beauty of molding
- Also there will be NO NEED to PRINT any details YET - there will be print-less description of it. But at the later stage the ink I will use will be vegetable or soya ink.
- The secondary use of my packaging would REQUIRE NO FURTHER ADDITIONS nor BE WASTED, it will be fully re-used
Q.2 What two things might you yourself do to lessen your own carbon footprint in the future?
Listening to Joe and how we can increase and decrease CO2 was very interesting, especially when he talked about the trees and how leaving them to root creates more CO2 than actual usage of the wood itself for building for example!
I have read a VERY INTERESTING yet STAGGERING book called: "HOW BAD ARE BANANAS? THE CARBON FOOTPRINT OF EVERYTHING". I will recommend for the strong strong hearted one also!
- I will continue to use reusable shopping bags
- I would love to find a job that would NOT require TRAVELING BY CAR, NOR TRAIN.
- I am teaching my children about being eco-friendly and I will continue to do so..as it is their future that matters also.
I will share my present SIN, which is hard to beat - I CAN'T GIVE UP FLYING, although I am absolutely petrified of it! just because I want to see my family who live abroad.
Q.3 Describe 1 example of information display that you saw while at CAT: What it was, how it was presented graphically and in what context [i.e. covered area, out in the open, specialist display etc]. Could the display you saw be improved and how do you think this could be achieved?
Overall I have to say that with regards to information design CAT has not been successful.
the signage is either unnoticed, puzzling or in the wrong place(see some pics on my blog). One of the signs: ASSEMBLY POINT was almost unnoticed - far too small - particularly in size. I could not find any signs that would lead you to that point, therefore in case of emergency it would be difficult to find it.
I have found one SIGN that speak about REUSE/RECYCLE facts, which is very appropriate to our module, and it would INTEREST younger audience also.
What CAT does seems to be EMINENT, yet to seize the YOUNGER AUDIENCE they are far from it. CAT is a very peaceful place to be and I think children of all ages would benefit from it also.
This is our new generation of - hopefully - eco-friendly people.
Also the signs have no hierarchy - they all differ. There needs to be consistency and order. Perhaps this could be a great live project for Information Graphic Design module in the future.
EmilyVB
ReplyDeleteQ1. I am either using cheap wood or cardboard for my designs, wood is a strong, natural product, and as long as a sustainable forest concept is implemented then I still feel that a basic box idea uses the minimum requirements of wood. Also using wood means that joints can be created without the need for glue. However if I finalise my cardboard design it will be created out of one piece of cardboard as I have designed a net that shouldn’t necessarily need glue to keep it together. And finally any colour I use on either packaging will be solely for text, and will use vegetable or soy inks for the printing process.
Q2. I already walk around Worcester, rarely using my car, however when at home I will usually pick a car over public transport for efficiency, but I could start to car pool when I know the distance and travelling time of my destination.
Our house in Worcester is not very energy efficient, we often find we are loosing heat rapidly, perhaps having the heating on less and wrapping up more often could combat our own high bill payments and improve our carbon footprint, and perhaps mention to the landlord about our feelings on the matter.
Q3. Personally, around CAT I noticed too many different types of signage! There were more than 3 styles talking about different subject but in a similar spatial area. There was no continuity and I found this confusing. I think the system could be improved by having 1 design the flowed throughout CAT but perhaps a change in colour when the audience is children instead of adults.
1 section of CAT I found interesting was the pedal and handle system that allowed you to wind it up to create light at specific areas, 50Watts to 150Watts, however there wasn’t any detailed signage as to what to do in this area. Using diagrams, simple text and bright colours would get the activity to appeal to children and hopefully get them to understand about their own energy use through simple exercise.
Andreea
ReplyDelete3 ways to minimise the materials use with your package.
• I will try and use less cardboard than other packages use, by having cutouts in front in the same shape as the label that appears on the bottles
• The design that will go on the package is the key consideration, that’s why it needs to be different and more eye catching than other packaging designs, reason why I will have embossing elements on the sides of the package and debossing for the logo which will appear on the top front of it, like this reducing the use of vegetable inks.
• The net that I will create will be glue less. I will try to find a way that my package will stay together by using only folds.
two things to lessen the carbon footprint
I found this question a tuff one knowing that I don’t use transport, I am recycling, I already have in my house eco light bulbs. The visit at CAT really gave me ideas of how to reduce my carbon footprint. The first thing that everybody picked up was to build a well insulated house, that would keep you warm during the winter without using too much the heat.
Because I have a greenhouse in my backyard I would really like to start growing my own vegetables, having a healthier system at the same time.
1 example of information display
The information display that I picked up was the “Reuse&Recycle. Do you know the facts?”, which is an outdoor stand really close to the Mail Room. It used really simple graphics, colors that have a connection with sustainability and recycling like blue, green, brown and white. The illustrations were simple, showing elements from the world like plants or animals (environmentally friendly if we do recycling that’s the connection that they were aiming, when they designed, I think) Used a simple serif font for the title and a sans serif one for the information. All the facts about recycling were displayed next to an aluminum plate that had the recycle logo on it.
The display can be improved by using a simple palette of colors that say the word “recycle and reuse”. In terms of font, they should keep it simple by using only sans serif fonts (they are more readable). The graphics that are part of the background don’t have strong connection with the title (graphics with waste or packaging, symbols of recycling maybe)
Q 1. With my current packaging design I have used probably the leased amount of material I could to make it flat pack-able and what not, so i'm not sure what i could do to reduce this. I suppose I could reduce measurements but that would compromise the structural integrity of the packaging. I was considering using thinner card but again I didn't want to compromise the quality of it. I have also included a tab system in holding my packaging together therefore the packaging is glue-less.
ReplyDeleteQ 2. I think to reduce my carbon foot print I could probably use my car less, this one could be a toughie though, I've grown very attached to it. I could also put about five jumpers on instead of the heating when I'm at home.
Q 3. My view of CATs signage was, well... not the best. I think they could have been more clear as to what they were because they were quite hidden and dull. There was no continuous use of one identity, and I felt it was a bit all over the place. I wasn't drawn to any of the signs.
I think to improve this they could make the signage bigger and brighter and more interactive and engaging instead of reams of text. One aspect I did like was where they had the different eco building materials where you could see and feel them.
Harriet
ReplyDeleteQ1: The packaging idea i am currently working on, works on the theory of using as little cardboard as possible, only enough to hold the bottles and condiments effectively, The second usage for this idea was to either use seed induced paper, which could be planted in the garden after use therefore getting rid of any unused material and returning the materials to there natural form. The second usage idea was to convert the packaging into a holder for flower pots in the home in the hope to encourage people to hold onto the packaging, the design would need to be well thought out in order to attract the people buying to want to keep the package for this reason.
The idea is also to use as limited glue as possible to reduce harmful chemicals, if all packaging was conscious of this then packaging would be alot more sustainable.
Q2: In the future, the ways i might reduce my carbon footprint would be to promote sustainability in the workplace, educating clients of the benefits of being green conscious.
After researching Eco interior design for my Dissertation, i have learnt you can still have style and good design within the home without compromising the earth. I would enjoy taking on the challenge of creating a home which is sustainable, using Eco-conscious materials and also incorporating vintage and recycled items .
Q3: One information graphic style i noticed which stood out were the stone slates with information about the trees above them, what they could be used for and their qualities. The problem with the signage in CAT was that it didn't all connect into one certain theme, if more continuity was used then it might be easier to follow and look more effective as a group, some of the boards were designs better than other, the strong elements from some of the signage should be pulled across the whole site.
Rhys
ReplyDeleteQ1. Three ways to minimise the material of your package
1. Cant really think of anything to reduce the package. If I reduced the size of the package in respect to height, the beer bottles wont fit completely inside the package.
2. It may be an option to reduce the width of the package which will reduce the material being used, but again it may compromise the positioning of the products that are supposed to go inside so it depends upon how big the beer bottles and condiment are in respect to width.
3. There is a variety of cardboard that are made in different viscosity, so with that being said one aspect of my package for example, the lid can do with using a thinner cardboard material because, it's only purpose is to open and close the package, therefore it doesn't need to be a thicker material it would be a waste.
Q2. Reducing my carbon footprint
1. I would use less electricity, because some electrical appliances are always on for no reason and I usually have the OCD of turning them off.
2. I walk all the time to get to places and don't really have the need of using a car as long as it is not too far to walk and if I needed to get to a certain destination on time.
Q3. Information display on CAT
What got my attention was the large quantity of informational signs displaying about the different varieties of non renewable energy and renewable such as nuclear, coal , wind turbine energy etc.
What was good about the displays was that the information. It was aligned neatly and the heirachy of the information was well thought out.
What I thought needed improvement was the color scheme. The titles are in one color and the semi titles are in a variety of different colors and I think its a little off putting when reading because your bombarded with so many colours so, what I would is use one of each color for different subjects of the same topic which will make each sign stand out a bit more.
Some really good thinking here people.. Clear that the visit has sparked off some additional thoughts about the broader meaning of sustainability in the community. I'll be monitoring until this evening's deadline regards blog task timings and record who makes it within the window and who not for my records..
ReplyDeleteQ1:
ReplyDeleteMinimal amount of material usage is a must when trying to create 'eco-friendly' packaging - this is why I am using of one sheet of cardboard with folds to hold the packaging in place, this prevents the need for glues, or any adhesives for that matter (allowing the product to recycle much easier). I am currently looking at ways in which I can reduce card further, even if I were to create cut-outs along the packaging that does not lessen the amount of material used, it's in fact somewhat worse as the cut-out remains are wasted, these cut out sections could have a use for maybe the Supermarkets that punch them out (Looking into the possibility of these materials becoming some sort of clip strip style thing (see ref:http://www.uni-plastic.com/molded%20clip%20strip%20and%20hang%20strips%20001.jpg)) As these don't seem to be recyclable from what I have found and it would be great to have some sort of strong yet recyclable alternative. The clip strip could then by used to display packets of nuts, etc, that could be sold with the beer.
That would be a secondary use for the Supermarket, which is great, but I've considered the secondary use for the consumer to be some sort of fridge pack / beer holder (Much like coke did those fridge-packs for cans). I am thinking of using quite a creative graphical style that will require the use of ink based products, soy ink would definitely be ideal for this - but that may depend on the expensive for WVB.
Q2:
I think that in order to lesson my own carbon footprint, and my own expenses in electricity usage I would definitely consider solar power, it would be brill to just use natural resources to power my own house. I think if I had enough space I would plant a few trees too - helping the eco-system even just a little bit is better than nothing at all. In terms of travel / petrol usage, I definitely intend to invest in some cycling kit when I can… I can then make those trips to the shops pretty quick without having to use any fuel.
Q3:
Pinpointing one particular display, I looked at the greenhouse style orb - the colours and graphical styles inside were quite nice and the vinyl used (I think it was vinyl) gave the display space and it was nice reading the text on a transparent background, it didn't detract from the display at all.
As a whole, I noticed that a lot of the displays at CAT were inconsistent in their design styles - this wasn't particularly confusing however they just seemed to lack the impact that they could have. I think a much 'fresh' and 'greener' approach to the signage would be great. I noticed a lot of them were very text heavy, I know there is a lot of information to give, however some font tweaks could really bring the designs to life.
It would be really cool to have maybe some kind of static map or signposts (If there were a lot of sign posts I don't really remember seeing them - so this obviously needs to be revised).
Vishnu Parmar
ReplyDeleteQuestion 1
3 Ways I would minimize materials word be first of all to use only one sheet of cardboard using folds and lock to create my packaging. Secondly I would also eliminate the use of glue by using different types of folds and locking the cardboard into cut pieces of the cardboard. Finally I could cut down the size of my packaging to use less cardboard but still give the effect wanted.
Question 2
Ways I could lessen my carbon footprint in the future would be to recycle food packaging and paper which is used, look to buy a car which would be more eco friendly like a hybrid, and finally turning things like the TV off stand by
Question 3
When looking at the display board at Cat I found that they were full of information and there was too much on every board. I also found that the board never had a “ You Are Here” point and this found it difficult to see when you were on the map boards. I also found the colours, which were used for the board to be very boring and not really catch your attention. I think the board could be improved by using a lot less information but still getting to the point and it would defiantly help if the boards with maps which where you wear so that you knew what was around you and which way you could go next.
Three ways that I might minimise my material use with the package:
ReplyDeleteWhilst developing my packaging I have decided that cardboard is the most suitable material due to its durability and flexibility. However through the development stage I have been trying to adapt the packaging using as little material as possible, creating the net shape out of a singular piece of cardboard.
I have changed the packaging so that glue is not needed, having constructed packaging that needs only folds and tabs.
By creating a use for the small sections that have to be popped out for the tabs will make the package completely reusable.
Things I would do to minimise my carbon footprint:
Buying more local and organic produce. This will minimise how far it will travel if it’s locally grown and there is a better chance the food was grown in an eco-friendly way. Many foods have a large carbon footprint due to how they were produced and the distance it had to travel to reach our shops.
Switching to Florescent light bulbs will use 75% less energy and last much longer than normal bulbs. Comparing these to regular bulbs, the fluorescents are more expensive, but they will eventually pay for themselves due to lower energy costs.
Information display at CAT:
As I was unable to attend the trip I have looked at the images you have put up and can see that there seem to be a range of information displays around the site appeared to be in the open. They all have a very different feel to them. I'm not sure whether this is dependent on the area or not. Suggested improvement would be perhaps having some sort of flow through all of the info boards (a theme). This would minimise the confusion and create a continuity through the centre.
I would suggest an improvement to
Ida
ReplyDeleteSecond try, first time I wrote answers and then my laptop decided to delete it.. So I try to remember all that I wrote, again.
Q1.
I'm already using as little as possible, no glues or anything with it. Using string that can be possibly burned after the use, or reuse it as a holder or carrier, or just put it to compost or recycle as I think it is hemp string (got it from the CAT, but it didn't say what it was, but I suspect it to be hemp or such as it has a strong smell to it.)
Q2.
Not to travel too much, and stop eating as much meat and dairy as I do. Perhaps in the future I can reduce my travels, but at the moment, I am just commuting home and back, but whilst in UK I don't drive at all, I walk mostly, never even use the buss to get anywhere in town.
Q3.
The signage could be done again to get some continuity to it. Some places had some signs and some places didn't have anything. I thought it was nearly nonexisting signage in there.
Q1
ReplyDelete1. Using a thinner cardboard could be approached if the bottles inside are still protected by the packaging. This would minimalise the amount of card used but might not protect the bottle as well as it should.
2. Instead of just using one type of material i could use a plastic to hold and package the products. I would have to use a plastic that could be easy to recycle using very little energy. This would have its drawbacks as you wont be able to find an eco friendly way to print on the plastic.
3. Instead of surrounding the whole packaging i could design a holder for the three pieces which would only keep them together. And uses the packaging allready existing to protect the bottles.
Q2
1. When buying a house when im older one of the first things i will probable look for is the insulation of the building. If the buidling cant retain its heat very weel it will put up my bills aswell as not helping the planet. This also applies to buying a car in the future.
2. Changing the way i eat could be another i have to take advantage when older. There are mant different types of the same food out there and they are grown/ farmed and reared differently to get the best possible results mainly. But if ii where to only choice local or free range foods then it might cost me a little more the buy each week but by doing this i would be able to have abetter tasting food aswell as saving the planet a little.
Q3
1. HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER.
I found that this was one of the more exciting pieces to look at as it was the least seen one there. It was desplayed by the side of asmall lake or large pond. With a small stream running into the diplay. I would have improved it by actually having it work instead of it just saying what this does in one centence. Its a huge thing to just have in a non working diplay
1) suggest 3 ways in which you might minimise your materials use with your package.
ReplyDelete• Only use necessary materials, don’t use extra or more just to make it look good.
• Make your packaging out of off cuts if possible.
• Make a second use for your packaging but don’t be too extravagant with the use of materials.
2) what two things might you yourself do to lessen your own carbon footprint in the future?
• As I do a lot of driving, I will minimize this whenever possible. e.g. walk, cycle or use public transport more.
• Make more of an effort to recycle even more and use more recycled products.
3) Describe 1 example of information display that you saw while at CAT: What it was, how it was presented graphically and in what context [i.e. covered area, out in the open, specialist display etc]. Could the display you saw be improved and how do you think this could be achieved?
• I noticed the signage on the straw bail theatre was quite nice. I think it would benefit from a bit of an update as its not actually that noticeable when your there. I also think it would show off what the building is, maybe include some information about the building separately. E.g it was one of the first buildings to be erected and its made out of straw bails etc.
On a general note about the signage around the whole centre, I found that there was no consistency throughout the signage; it was a bit of a miss match. Possibly incorporate their branding into the signage and a consistent layout and shape etc.
Q1. Suggest 3 Ways in which you might minimise your materials use with your package.
ReplyDelete- The shape of my packaging is very square and therefore can be created out of the one sheet of material be it cardboard or wood etc. Meaning there would be less waste in the creation of the box net and packaging. As well as in the box's secondary use, there will be no waste at all due to the way it'll be constructed to easily fold into it's secondary form.
- I will try and keep secondary packaging to a minimum, as it will only be wasted once the product has been removed. So the use of something in the box to keep the products protected and sturdy may be removed completely and possibly think of a way to incorporate that into the packaging itself. Instead of packing out the packaging with plastic, or straw or anything like that to keep the bottles safe and fixed in place, which will just end up being removed and chucked away after products have been used.
- I think the packaging having a secondary use is delaying it from re-entering the waste chain, however, one of the other uses for my packaging in particular is a book, therefore I have to consider the inks I use and how safe and eco-friendly they are, not just for the packaging but for the book it self. So potentially use of soy, or vegetable inks in such printing.
Q2. What might you yourself do to lessen your own carbon footprint in the future?
- I'm already pretty eco-friendly, I don't drive anywhere, and usually get the train or bus around, and walk shorter distances. My family grow their own fruit and veg for consumption, and are pretty strict on turning off electrical goods like the TV, Computer, Laptops, properly after use instead of leaving them on stand by. We have a lot of natural light come into our house and as a result don't turn the lights on unless necessary. I know we're considering getting solar panels fixed to the house, but I think we need to review the insolation of the house as we use the heating more than we should do.
Q3. Describe 1 example of information display that you saw while at CAT: What it was, how it was presented graphically...
- The main aspect of the displays that I saw around CAT were that they weren't consistent. They all had varying layouts and styles which were fine in regards to what information was on them, but there was nothing really bringing them together 'under one umbrella' as it were. For me they were either too cluttered or too bare in regards to the layout of the information.
[ZOE]
ReplyDeleteQ1. Suggest 3 Ways in which you might minimise your materials use with your package.
1. One way that I am helping to minimise materials is by not using glue and using locking tabs instead. Also, I am planning on having some windows cut out so that the products are visible and instead of wasting these bits, I am planning to turn them into beer mats.
2. I am using minimal ink. I’ve been in two minds about whether to use colour or not but using as little ink as possible would be much better, and whatever needs to be printed onto the packaging would be printed in vegetable ink which is better because it doesn’t contain nasty chemicals.
3. I’m hoping to make my packaging the right measurements so that it fits the products nicely without wasting space and having excess cardboard.
Q2. What might you yourself do to lessen your own carbon footprint in the future?
I already try to do my bit for the environment such as recycle what can be recycled, I try to cut down on using electricity and I know that my family and friends buy the energy efficient light bulbs and as I don't own a car, I walk a lot but I could:
1. Be more strict with recycling. Sometimes I’m unsure about certain materials so I will automatically throw it away without looking it up.
2. I will try and use less carrier bags when shopping and more re-useable ones. I did try doing this at one point but I need to make it become more routine.
3. Also, in the future I would like to get a car that is friendlier for the environment.
Q)1
ReplyDeleteA) My initial thoughts are to think of another design which uses less board. After reading the Envirowise Guide (page 11) I found that under packaging can be far worse for the environment than over packaging. Over-packaging by 10% means that 10% of the resources needed to produce the packaging are wasted and extra fuel will be needed to distribute it.
Under-packaging that results in the product being spoilt or damaged wastes 100% of the resources used to produce both the contents and its packaging, and all the fuel used to distribute it.
Another way could be to use thinner board material and the other option would be to find a more flexible material to work with which will lessen the space between the packaging and the product.
My design will use interlocking parts so will not need glue; Ink will be from a sustainable source and will be used sparingly.
Q)2
A) I already try to live a sustainable lifestyle, I compost everything that I can, and I recycle everything that is allowed in the recycling bin, I salvage what I can when renewing furniture (wood, screws, draws, mechanisms etc...). I could drive less; this would reduce my carbon footprint the most. I could also switch off electrical items when not in use, things like my PC, and the TV. I would also benefit from insulating my house properly.
Q)3
A) One of the information displays I noticed while at CAT was the map of the centre. The colour looked as though it had faded quite a bit, and I think it would have benefitted from a starting point, “you are here” for example. Another were the “Tour Points”, these were just laminated paper and wasn’t very noticeable.
Some really good comments here people.. Chuffed.. I think we're just waiting on Adam and Vicky Holdford to pop their comments up here now. They've missed the blog task's deadline but it would still be useful to hear their thoughts on the Q's set..
ReplyDeleteVicky Holdford
ReplyDeleteQ1. The first way I could reduce the amount of packaging would be to try to create a packaging design that holds the top and bottom of the products effectively so that I would not have to add much packaging on the front or sides of the design. The second way I could reduce the amount of packaging would be to create a second use for the packaging. I want to create a second use that is for the home which will appeal to the female audience. This would prevent the packaging going into the waste cycle so quickly. The final idea would be to use ways to fold and secure the packaging that would be good for our environment, making the product more sustainable and recyclable.
Q2. I found the talks at CAT extremely interesting, I have used the information that I have learnt in my information design module which is where I feel this information is best used. I would take great consideration in my design and ideas in the future to ensure that they are environmentally friendly. I would try to educate people through my experiences in this module and the CAT visit to become more aware of our environment. I would also feel very happy to change my lifestyle in the future so that my own carbon footprint would be reduced as well as trying to educate people about it through my career.
Q3. There were many different designs of information at CAT which I feel is slightly confusing because there isn’t a running theme that connects them all together. I quite liked the reuse and recycle signage as it was very colourful and eye-catching. The CAT centre during the winter months looks very dull and I felt that by having interesting signage it could give it a bit more depth. However I do feel that the main idea would be to create all the signs to be similar so that they are easier to follow.
Adam Nicolaou.
ReplyDeleteQ1. I've actually been thinking a lot about reducing and cutting down materials with my designs and actually developed concepts reducing size as some were unnecessarily large and gave no real benefit. So I definitely cut down on materials on the two designs I took forward. Only three products are going to be housed in the package so you really don't require something large, that will effect cost of production and shelf space etc. The weight of the materials i'll be using is also something i'll be taking into consideration. Where possible reducing the packaging will be a great benefit, when it comes to production and recycling.
Q2. Living in a student house, we if i'm honest waste a lot of energy and usage by leaving electrical appliances on overnight etc not turning off light's, TV's. Simple but turning stuff off like this will have a huge impact on our carbon footprint's.
Recycle. I generally am quite good when it comes to recycling but there is always more you can do. Visiting CAT really was an eye opener regarding the issue of recycling and shows the positive and huge effects recycling can achieve.
Q3 Some of the interactive signage was quite impressive and cool I found, raising awareness on recyclable materials. Where you had a sheet of material and had to feel and guess what the material is, lift the flap to reveal the answer. I remember one was a pair of wellies. Great way of raising awareness and getting younger visitor's involved.