EDEN EcoDesign Network. Cross border Network aimed at the engineering of eco-compatible product

The paper deals with the initial results of the research project EDEN EcoDesign Network. Cross border Network aimed at the engineering of eco-compatible product (2011-2013), included in the Interreg-Alcotra Programme 2007-2013. Specifically, the EDEN project is aimed at supporting Piedmont SMEs' realization of innovative environmentally sustainable products and processes; these are to be deemed keys to their future development. The project is organized in two levels. The first level urges SMEs to confront environmental issues and stimulates them to adopt an ecodesign approach, which takes into account the environmental life cycle performances. The second level aims at supporting and leading companies into developing and engineering new products/processes that may be more environmentally sustainable and commercially viable. These selected companies are related to different product groups such as: wood furniture, taps and fitting components, jewelry, EPS semi-finished products, educational toys and food packaging. They are presented as six case studies. By working on these case studies, and by adopting eco-design strategies such as material substitution, application in new fields or the conversion of some manufacturing activities into green processes, it is possible to demonstrate how ecodesign strategies can be improved not only in their individual environmental performances but also inasmuch they enhance the brand identity of the companies. In particular, the paper illustrates the collective results of these case studies and how these can be integrated into practical realities. What is more, this data is critical to imbue a more environmentally-conscious approach in the interaction between the several SMEs of the Piedmont and neighbouring French companies