Circular and Sustainable Product Design. Rethinking the Modularity as a Strategy to Increase the Durability of Industrial Products

In recent years, the industrial production system has become challenged by environmental concerns and moving towards sustainable models. In this scenario, the Circular Economy (CE) represents a virtuous, closed-loop production model capable of optimising the environmental impact of goods by reusing outputs in technical and biological cycles and extending the life of products as far as possible. CE focuses on the design phase and the concept of 'modularity', applied through Design for Modularity (DfM) strategies, is consolidated as a key action to reduce environmental impact and improve product durability. Modularity makes it possible to prolong the use phase of the products by means of repairs, upgrades and remanufacturing. Several studies confirm the importance of DfM in design, both to develop more sustainable and durable products and to help manufacturing companies move towards circular and sustainable models. Through the analysis of case studies of products designed with a DfM approach and in line with SDG 12 and UN Target 12.5, the article aims to examine the importance of modularity as a key strategy to enhance the circularity and sustainability of industrial products in the circular economy.