The traditional linear approach of "take–make–waste" in industries has caused environmental issues such as waste, pollution, and climate change. To address these challenges, ecodesign and the 3Rs have emerged as GP tools viewing environmental attributes as design objectives rather than constraints. As responsible investment expands to include social issues, businesses must manage their environmental and social impacts to enhance performance. By embracing these principles, companies can contribute to a better future for all.

Adopting ecodesign and the 3Rs in GP strategies offers businesses benefits like cost savings, improved reputations, and market competitiveness. By proactively addressing environmental and social concerns, they attract responsible investors and foster stakeholder trust. Such commitment shapes a resilient, sustainable future for businesses, the planet, and society as a whole.

Course Objectives

The main objectives of this course are to:

• Explain the concept of ecodesign and the 3Rs as key strategies for waste minimization and sustainable industrialization;
• Show the benefits of ecodesign and the 3Rs using examples of best practices; and
• Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of ecodesign and the 3Rs using indicators and metrics.

Course Modules

This e-learning course will cover the following modules: 
Module 1: Overview of ecodesign and 3R concepts 
Module 2: Ecodesign processes 
Module 3: Environmental regulations and standards in product design 
Module 4: Checklist for eco-friendly, sustainable design process evaluation 
Module 5: Case studies of best practices and successful ecodesign and 3R applications

Important Notes:

1. Participants who register to take this course and pass the final examination with a score of 70% or higher will be eligible to receive the APO certificate. Please note that the final examination can be taken only once. Therefore, the most appropriate time to take the examination should be chosen carefully. The self-assessment quizzes are for personal evaluation only and are not related to the final examination results.
2. Participants who perform well in this course and receive the APO certificate will be given preference, on a merit basis, for selection to attend follow-up face-to-face multicountry APO projects on similar topics, when nominated by their NPOs and if slots are available.
3. Notes 1 and 2 are applicable only to participants from APO member countries. Participants from nonmember countries are welcome to take the course for self-improvement, although they will not have an opportunity to attend the follow-up face-to-face multicountry APO projects.
4. Each module is in a prerecorded video format in which the expert delivers presentations by explaining each slide. Participants can access the video by clicking on the link provided under the title of each module.