The Electrolux 2008 refrigeration collection in Australia has won the 2009 Award for Excellence in Sustainable Design in Standards Australia's International Design Awards.
John Gertsakis, Senior Sustainability Consultant at WSP Environmental and one of this year's judges, said the Electrolux refrigeration collection was a standout example of a product addressing a range of environmental issues through design.
"The collection demonstrates a sophisticated approach to design for sustainability.
It shows how you can successfully combine good design with environmental performance and how design can effectively address functionality, aesthetic quality and affordability in a product that potentially has a significant environmental impact," he said.
The judges were also impressed by the Electrolux commitment to product stewardship with a take-back service for previously owned fridges, product packaging recycling and product life expectancy of 20 years or more.
Stephanie Watson, Program Director of the Australian International Design Awards, said: "With up to 80% of a product's environmental impact locked in at the design stage, designers are in a strong position to encourage environmentally responsible actions.
We believe it is important to recognize those designers and companies who are making practical design decisions that influence a product's environmental impact in a positive way."