Design Shapes Sustainability

The German Design Council directs attention to the sustainability debate – from a design perspective. As a foundation of the German Bundestag and a driving force for companies, institutions and the design industry, we take responsibility for unlocking design’s potential for a sustainable future. 

We believe: Design is the key to sustainable transformation. Many of our members already demonstrate how circularity can become reality – through material innovation, durability and circular business models.

Circular design is the key to sustainable innovation. Around 80% of a product’s environmental impact is determined at the design stage. Design defines how products are made, used and reused. 

If design can be part of the problem, it can also be part of the solution.

“As a designer, you have the opportunity to shape how people perceive the world. You can design a packaging to be environmentally friendly. Or you can design it to motivate people to make sustainable choices. Design is more powerful than many people think.“
Kate Raworth, Economist and „Personality of the Year” of the German Design Awards 2025