In the ‘Design Lab’ research group at Aalborg University we use design thinking as a driver for sustainable transition. We approach the present challenges of the unsustainable production and consumption patterns with new ground-breaking ideas and approaches.

Transition towards a more sustainable use of products and circular economy begins in the design process. It is not enough to upcycle or recycle products once they have been discarded.

In the ‘Design Lab’ group, we do research on how to create products that will solve long-term problems and that people will use, cherish and love for a long time. We do research on how to create products, that are not prematurely discarded, because they have become obsolete either functionally, aesthetically or technically. And we test concepts, methods and new systemic approaches to sustainable design, development, materials and production, that can extend products' value and lower their environmental impact.