What aspect of design does sustainability criteria emphasize?

Sustainability criteria in design emphasize environmental friendliness and resource efficiency, focusing on creating products and systems that have minimal negative impact on the environment. This includes considering how materials are sourced, the energy consumed during the product's life cycle, its toxicity, and how it can be reused or recycled after its intended use. By prioritizing environmental considerations, designs aim to meet current needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs.

In contrast, focusing solely on cost efficiency does not necessarily take environmental impacts into account. Long-term usage without maintenance may overlook necessary environmental considerations related to materials and energy consumption throughout the product's life. Similarly, market trends and competition analysis relate more to economic performance and consumer preferences rather than sustainability principles.