Exploring sustainable practices in smart product development: a field study and analysis in Quebecs entrepreneurial ecosystem

ABSTRACT:

The study documents the approaches, processes, methods, and tools used by 11 start-ups to develop their smart products, while focusing on the sustainable concepts and techniques (SCTs) adopted. Although the majority of start-ups demonstrate awareness of the environmental impacts of their products and tend to implement relevant practices, the results indicate a lack of formalised SCT usage. Several start-ups have therefore recognised the value of a bespoke “eco-design toolbox” and aim to work towards reducing the environmental impacts of their later product versions.