By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Understand the importance of sustainability in design and technologies, including ethical considerations.
• Identify sustainable materials and practices, drawing from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on environmental stewardship.
• Apply sustainability principles to design tasks, evaluating impacts on society and the environment.

This lesson aligns with the Australian Curriculum for Year 7 Design and Technologies, focusing on social, ethical, and sustainability considerations in design (ACTDEK029), and integrates the Aboriginal Cultural Standards Framework by incorporating Indigenous knowledge of sustainable practices. It is designed to take approximately 60 minutes, including reading, activities, and a quiz.

1. Step 1: Read for Understanding and Answer all Questions (20 minutes):
2. Step 2: In small groups, brainstorm a simple sustainable design for a "school eco-gadget" (e.g., a pencil holder from recycled items). Use sketches and label with spelling words like "renewable" and "ethical." (10 minutes)
3. Step 3: Hands-On: Build a quick prototype using classroom supplies. Evaluate it against criteria like safety and environmental impact. (20 minutes)
4. Step 4: Presentation of the Design and Construction. (10 minutes)

Sustainability in design means creating things that last long and do not harm the environment. It starts with choosing renewable materials, like bamboo instead of plastic. Designers research ways to reduce waste. For example, they might recycle old items into new products. Then, they sketch eco-friendly ideas. A prototype is built to test if it is ethical and safe. Finally, evaluate the design to see if it helps the planet. This process is used in technologies like solar panels and reusable bags.

Sustainability matters in design because it protects the environment and people. Think about a reusable water bottle. It must be durable (last long), safe for users, and made from recycled materials. Designers consider ethical issues, like fair treatment of workers. They also draw from Indigenous knowledge, such as using natural resources wisely. Good sustainable design reduces waste and saves energy. In class, you might design a solar-powered charger using renewable energy.

Imagine designing a reusable bag inspired by Aboriginal practices. First, the brief: it must be strong, eco-friendly, and reduce plastic use. Research shows Indigenous people use natural fibres sustainably. Sketch ideas, like one from hemp. Build a model from recycled fabric. Test it—is it durable? Iterate to improve, like adding stronger stitches. The final solution is manufactured ethically. Always check criteria, like impact on the environment, to ensure success.

1. Sustainable design helps protect the environment by using renewable materials.
2. To recycle waste, designers innovate eco-friendly products that are ethical and safe.
3. The function of a prototype is to evaluate sustainability in technology.
4. After sketching ideas, iterate on your model for better ergonomics and aesthetic.
5. Manufacture products using criteria that ensure they are a sustainable solution.