7. Frequently asked questions

Why are the fact sheets on frugal innovation not included in this chapter?

Frugal innovation is a design trend defined by the pursuit of savings in use and expenditure throughout a product's life cycle. It involves simplifying a product's features to meet the essential needs of end users while reducing costs, and is primarily applied in emerging countries. Frugal innovation seeks in particular to save materials and energy, but achieving better environmental performance is not systematic. In cases where it is achieved, this is unintentional. This is why it is not included in this chapter, but it remains a very interesting approach that complements sustainable design in general. The fact sheets Understanding Frugal Innovation Strategies