Class Reflections, October 23rd, 2008

Our concern for the environmental impacts of manufacturing has become quite apparent, and rightfully so, since so much of what we make enters and conflicts with the environment’s natural processes. This was the overriding theme of our outing to Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors. The presenter was composed and articulate and I was truly convinced that their products were at the very top of sustainable technology. As the presentation went on however, I began to think more about the impacts of PVC on the environment and on our health. Working towards having little impact on the natural world goes beyond recycling waste materials and a reduction in resource use. The processes of production that flush chemicals and foreign things into the environment have just as much of a negative effect than anything else. Despite this, I did leave with much insight into the complex engineering of window design and technology. Although I do have to agree with Katie on this one, that perhaps the aesthetics should be left to the designers.