image AI generated by author using Midjourney
What does your zodiac sign say about you as a Designer for Sustainability?
Based on the University of the Arts, London’s TED’s Ten, the following is a proposed relationship to the zodiac signs and sustainability focus areas in design.
TED’s Ten is a framework for designers in fashion and textiles to assist them in thinking through the sustainability impacts of their work. Decisions made during the design stage can determine up to eighty percent of a product's lifetime emissions. Hence, designers play a large role in addressing sustainability.
Aries (March 21 – April 19) - The Historical Designer
With a keen eye for the timeless elegance of traditional craftsmanship and the intricate patterns found in the natural world, Aries designers seamlessly blend ancient wisdom with contemporary aesthetics, creating designs that resonate with depth and meaning. By embracing the rich tapestry of human culture and the delicate balance of ecosystems, Aries designers inspire others to connect with the heritage of the past and the sustainability of the present, forging a path towards a more harmonious and culturally rich future.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) - The Mindful designer
With their innate sense of stability and appreciation for quality craftsmanship, Taurus designers prioritize creating products that stand the test of time, minimizing the need for excessive consumption. Drawing inspiration from their earthy nature, Taurus designers excel in crafting designs that are built to last, using sustainable materials and production methods to ensure longevity and durability. By focusing on creating timeless pieces that are cherished for generations, Taurus designers inspire a culture of mindful consumption and environmental stewardship, fostering a more sustainable and conscientious approach to design and consumption.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20) - The System and Service Designer
With their keen intellect and ability to think outside the box, Gemini designers excel in creating solutions that minimize material consumption and emphasize service-based approaches. Drawing inspiration from their dual nature, Gemini designers thrive on finding creative and efficient ways to streamline processes and develop innovative service models that meet evolving needs. By focusing on dematerializing designs and developing sustainable systems and services, Gemini designers drive positive change, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency that promotes environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) - The Intuitive Designer
With their deep sensitivity to the well-being of others and the environment, Cancer designers prioritize selecting materials and processes that minimize chemical impacts throughout the design lifecycle. Drawing inspiration from their intuitive nature, Cancer designers carefully evaluate the environmental and health implications of each component, opting for safer and more sustainable alternatives whenever possible. By emphasizing responsible material selection and production methods, Cancer designers create designs that not only exude beauty and quality but also uphold ethical and ecological values, fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Leo (July 23 – August 22) - The Ethical Designer
With their innate sense of generosity and passion for justice, Leo designers prioritize creating designs that uphold ethical standards and support fair labor practices. Drawing inspiration from their regal nature, Leo designers champion the rights of workers and advocate for transparency and accountability throughout the production process. By fostering a culture of ethical production, Leo designers not only create designs that exude elegance and excellence but also empower communities and promote social responsibility, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable manufacturing and production industry.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22) - The Purist Designer
With their analytical mindset and practical approach, Virgo designers excel in crafting designs that prioritize waste reduction at every stage of the process. Drawing inspiration from their earthy nature, Virgo designers carefully assess materials, techniques, and production methods to minimize waste generation while maximizing resource efficiency. By implementing zero waste cutting techniques, recycling processes, and innovative design strategies, Virgo designers create designs that not only minimize environmental impact but also showcase the beauty of mindful craftsmanship and sustainable practices, paving the way for a more eco-conscious and responsible design industry.
Libra (September 23 – October 22) - The Balanced Designer
With their innate ability to see both sides of a situation and their commitment to fairness and sustainability, Libra designers excel in creating designs that prioritize circularity and longevity. Drawing inspiration from their diplomatic nature, Libra designers carefully consider the entire lifecycle of their creations, designing products that can be easily recycled, repurposed, or regenerated. By embracing principles of biomimicry design and promoting a culture of circularity, Libra designers create designs that not only minimize waste but also foster a more harmonious relationship between people and the planet, leading the way towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) - The Innovative Designer
With their innate curiosity and determination, Scorpio designers excel in pushing boundaries and embracing cutting-edge technologies that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. Drawing inspiration from their transformative nature, Scorpio designers seek out innovative solutions and alternative production methods that minimize environmental impact and promote cleaner, more efficient processes. By embracing clean technologies such as renewable energy, 3D printing, and biodegradable materials, Scorpio designers create designs that not only push the boundaries of creativity but also pave the way for a more sustainable and regenerative future, where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) - The Cultural Designer
With their boundless curiosity and thirst for knowledge, Sagittarius designers draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of human history, exploring ancient traditions, indigenous craftsmanship, and cultural narratives. By delving into the wisdom of the past and celebrating the diverse heritage of different cultures, Sagittarius designers infuse their creations with authenticity, depth, and meaning. Whether it's incorporating traditional weaving techniques, indigenous patterns, or historical motifs, Sagittarius designers pay homage to cultural heritage while also fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation. Through their designs, Sagittarius designers not only preserve and celebrate cultural diversity but also promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness of humanity, paving the way for a more inclusive and culturally vibrant future.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) - The Conservationist Designer
With their innate sense of responsibility and resourcefulness, Capricorn designers excel in creating designs that prioritize efficiency and conservation. Drawing inspiration from their earthy nature, Capricorn designers carefully evaluate each aspect of the design process, seeking out energy-efficient production methods, and water-saving technologies. By implementing measures to minimize energy consumption and water usage, Capricorn designers not only reduce environmental impact but also demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of resources. Through their designs, Capricorn designers inspire others to adopt a more mindful and eco-conscious approach, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) - The Activist Designer
With their visionary outlook and passion for humanitarian causes, Aquarius designers use their creative talents as a powerful tool for advocacy and activism. Drawing inspiration from their progressive nature, Aquarius designers challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of conventional design, using their creations to raise awareness about pressing environmental and social issues. By organizing events, initiating campaigns, and collaborating with like-minded individuals, Aquarius designers inspire collective action and empower communities to drive positive change. Through their designs, Aquarius designers not only spark conversations but also mobilize people towards a more just, equitable, and sustainable future, where creativity serves as a catalyst for social transformation.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20) - The Local Designer
With their compassionate nature and intuitive understanding of human needs, Pisces designers prioritize ethical sourcing and fair labor practices, particularly emphasizing the importance of supporting local communities. Drawing inspiration from their imaginative spirit, Pisces designers seek out local artisans, craftsmen, and suppliers, fostering partnerships that promote economic empowerment and cultural preservation. By championing local production, Pisces designers not only ensure transparency and accountability but also cultivate a sense of community resilience and solidarity. Through their designs, Pisces designers celebrate the unique heritage and craftsmanship of their local environment, creating products that tell stories, evoke emotions, and inspire a sense of pride and belonging.
Content development for this page was assisted by AI tools including Midjourney and ChatGPT 3.5 and was inspired by TED’s Ten