Shaping the Future of Sustainable Jewelry

The chapter explores the future of sustainability in the jewelry sector, starting with a critical analysis of current practices and industry responses to growing sustainability demands. It highlights key trends and challenges, presenting research conducted by the Design Department of Politecnico di Milano’s JADIS research team on processes and methodologies driving sustainable innovation in jewelry design. The study emphasizes design as a transformative tool for addressing sustainability challenges across the supply chain. Using a systematic approach, the research identifies four future scenarios that outline potential industry evolutions, supported by an analysis of socio-economic, environmental, and technological factors. Each scenario offers actionable insights and strategic recommendations for stakeholders looking to align with sustainable development goals. By adopting a multidisciplinary perspective, this work provides a comprehensive understanding of sustainability’s impact on jewelry products, processes, and people, offering a valuable resource for brands navigating the transition toward responsible innovation.