Life Cycle Product Design

Amway was able to reduce the product’s plastic content by 51%, its global warming potential by 46% and its energy use by 46% compared to a previous model sold in Japan. All this was accomplished without any reduction in the product’s performance or ability to deliver exceptionally clean, great-tasting water. The research and development that resulted in the unique technologies incorporated into the redesign was part of Amway’s ongoing effort to minimize the environmental impact of its products and processes.

As part of Amway’s evolving Life Cycle Management approach to total product performance, a formal Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was conducted in 2009 to compare the current eSpring Water System with an older model sold in Japan. The LCA documented the new model’s strong improvements in environmental performance and allowed Amway to build its experience and capabilities with the life cycle management approach.