Articulation Quote by William McDonough
“This idea that things are designed to go back to nature or industry for ever which is our articulation of these two metabolisms are actually a discovery not an invention.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Cradle to Cradle, 2002
The cycles of natural and industrial processes are not inventions but discoveries of existing metabolic patterns.
In simple terms: Nature and industry already follow cyclical patterns we can learn from.
Key Takeaway
Design with existing cycles in mind.
Themes
sustainability
design
systems thinking
ecology
innovation
Mood
analytical
optimistic
inspirational
Type
environmental
design
philosophical
When to use this quote
- architecture
- product design
- urban planning
- manufacturing
Key Concepts
circular economy
systems theory
biomimicry
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we differentiate beneficial from harmful cycles?
- What designs respect both nature and industry?
A Different Perspective
Assuming all cycles are beneficial can ignore harmful ecological impacts.
![“You need that same creative force that exists in a building like Disney [Walt Disney Concert Hall] to actually tackle that most prosaic of problems.” quote by William McDonough](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a98/william-mcdonough-10055_building_you-need-that-same-creative-force-that-e_157070.jpg)
