Promoting sustainability in Cape Town through embedding tacit knowledge in modern design

Abstract

Design implies the conception and realisation of human needs and requirements through creative processes. Design is a social construct that is expressed through practice, in which designers act as agents of social change. Design for Sustainability (DfS) is a globally recognised way to improve efficiencies, product quality and market opportunities whilst simultaneously improving environmental performance. DfS does not necessarily require new technologies but rather, practical strategies that consider the society, environment and the economy. Integrating a tacit knowledge (TK) approach has been a strategy of choice employed by some product designers in Cape Town to address these diverse concerns. Consequently, tacit knowledge makes a significant contribution towards sustainability and has been embedded into production processes that foster social innovation. This is in line with DfS which includes the creation and appropriation of environmentally sensitive and responsible products as part of the evolving prevailing conditions of nature. This paper highlights some sustainable strategies that embed tacit knowledge in design so as to promote sustainability. Under the theme designing sustainability this paper further highlights some sustainable initiatives that are geared towards achieving sustainability and social change within Cape Town, South Africa. Key findings from this research suggest that we promote and give prominence to sustainable models that make tangible contributions towards sustainability.