Generation Scrap: Designing with Waste to Transform Industry and Envision a Better Future OnDemand

Living in a world that generates more waste than it recycles, Generation Scrap explores Gen Z’s attitudes and design solutions to the global climate crisis. Through a collaboration between Ohio State’s Interior Materials course and Mohawk Group’s Product Development team, students research and identify sustainability challenges impacting their generation to develop macro design trends that are translated into speculative carpet designs. From ocean plastic to fast fashion waste and even climate refugees, topics addressed circular design with a real-world understanding to develop innovative carpet design solutions that positively impact the natural environment and the human experience. This partnership project highlights the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and industry to create designs that support the growing demands and values of Gen Z.