ECONetwork: A Feasibility Study

EDC is happy to announce that from 20th April 2009 it will be working on a new design research project called ECONetwork. ECONetwork is a feasibility study that aims to assess the scope and potential for ecodesign and eco-innovation knowledge exchange networks for the professional design sectors in Wales (UK). Funding for the study has been given by the Academic Expertise for Business (A4B).

The 4 months feasibility study will assess the gaps in capacity for ecodesign and eco-innovation among professional designers in Wales and also the current and future support requirements of the design sector. It will explore how support requirements could be delivered through existing or new knowledge exchange mechanisms and intermediary organisations. In the context of this study, professional designers include independent design consultants and in-house designers in manufacturing companies.

The results of the feasibility study will contribute to the development of a potential knowledge exchange network for ecodesign and eco-innovation in Wales. This will be a strategically significant activity as it will incorporate the Welsh Assembly Government priorities of sustainable development, creating an innovative region and developing the creative industries.

EDC will share the results of the study through its website and email updates. It is expected that the improvement of design competencies will significantly contribute to innovation in Wales while projecting an international image of Wales as a region focused on sustainable competitiveness.

3 April 2009