The development of a CAD integrated DFE Workbench software tool

Today´s industry must become more proactive about the environment. New legislation (WEEE and EOLV directives) and market driven instruments such as environmental standards and Eco Labels are forcing industry to take action with regard to the environmental consequences of their activities. Noncompliance with these standards and legislation place them in a noncompetitive position on the global market place. Implementing design for the environment practices is an extremely effective strategy for the development of environmentally superior products (ESPs) The paper describes the requirements for the development of DFE tools and methodologies and introduces a new CAD integrated tool called the DFE Workbench. The paper concludes with issues and opportunities for further development of the tool