Material-flow modeling for design for environment

A tool for the regional planning of the Design for Environment (DFE) activities is proposed, based on a material-flow model across the industry. This effort is considered within the concept of higher-level tools for a broad industrial region. Issues ranging from the levels of existing design tools, to the envisioned highest level for a broad geographical region are discussed. The Multi-Lifecycle approach is supported by organizing the material flows across industrial enterprises, potentially utilizing waste material, side products and recycling. Capitalizing on the conceptual integration of the design and process activities, an Abstract Design Environment is used for the design of basically a process-oriented tool.