Design and Product Development

Case Study of Zero Waste Bag Design Utilizing Pre-Consumer Upholstery Fabric Waste

---

Abstract

The upholstery industry generates tremendous fabric waste each year, which negatively impacts the environment. The researchers aimed to explore a potential use of pre-consumer upholstery fabric waste through the creation of reusable grocery bags, under the frame of Barquet et al.'s (2016) five sustainability factors for product service system business model. By utilizing 98.88% of 234.48 ounces of upholstery fabric waste provided by an upholsterer, this study resulted in the creation of 30 reusable grocery bags with a total estimated retail value of $1,300. We revealed the positive linkage of our reusable bag design process to four of the sustainability factors: Apply Designs for Environment, Identify Economic Value, Promote Behavior Change, and Act Towards Social Well-being. Findings also suggest this upholstery fabric waste should no longer be considered waste, as it performs as valuable resources for the creation of other durable products.

How to Cite:

Taylor, L. J. & Lee, Y., (2017) “Case Study of Zero Waste Bag Design Utilizing Pre-Consumer Upholstery Fabric Waste”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 74(1).