Life cycle environmental problems have been addressed
by a number of strategies, but with unsatisfactory
results, since solutions are searched for within the
same paradigms that give rise to the problems. This
work questions the vision of linear material growth
and searches for ways to sustain economic growth
without putting the natural environment under stress.
The research explores the concept of product-service
systems as a strategy for reducing life cycle
environmental impacts. It shows how the concept has
evolved, defines a product-service system with
sustainability criteria and presents a framework for
evaluating and developing product-service systems.
The research also explores drivers, barriers and
opportunities for companies to shift towards
providing use value through product-service systems.
The importance of public policy and normative
institutions in promoting more sustainable
consumption and production patterns is investigated.
It is concluded that the PSS concept has a certain
environmental potential dependant not only on how the
system is organised, but also on the institutional
and socio-cultural context.
Product-Service Systems: Panacea or Myth?