Cradle to Cradle: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of Cradle to Cradle, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Products can be designed without waste
McDonough, an architect, and Braungart, a chemist, argue that instead of making products that end up as waste, we should design them so their materials can be endlessly reused.
They call this cradle to cradle.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Waste can become food
The authors argue that in nature, waste from one organism feeds another.
Human design should follow the same principle. In their view, this turns the idea of rubbish upside down, as every material should be designed for another use.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Some materials return to nature
The authors describe biological nutrients, materials that can safely break down and feed the soil.
In their account, such materials, once used, can go back to the earth as nutrients, much like a fallen leaf.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Some materials cycle in industry
The authors describe technical nutrients, materials that can be recovered and reused in industry.
In their account, these materials are designed to be kept in a cycle of use and recovery, so that their value is not lost.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Being less bad is not enough
The authors criticise eco-efficiency, reducing harm, and call instead for eco-effectiveness, designing to do good.
In their view, only making something less harmful still leaves it harmful, while good design adds positive value to people and nature.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Design should respect place
The authors argue that designs should suit local conditions and diversity.
In their view, a building or product suited to its climate, culture and ecology works better than one imposed from far away.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Use the sun's energy
The authors argue for using current solar income rather than fossil fuels.
In their view, sunlight is a steady source that nature itself relies on, so human design should draw on it instead of fuels that run out.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
The book itself was an example
The original edition was printed on a waterproof synthetic material meant to be recyclable.
In their view, this choice showed how their own ideas could be put into practice. It also aimed to show that books need not come from trees.
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