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127An important part of design thinking for sustainability is the concept of systemthinking (Fig. 3.2.5). System thinking allows researchers to understand multiplelevels of factors that affect the user. System thinking is a shift in mindset. Thefundamental principle of this shift is that everything is interconnected. It%u2019s thefirst step to seeing the %u201cbig picture%u201d of today%u2019s world. Part of this view can bethe analysis of megatrends. Megatrends are strong global forces affectingeverything and all life on our planet. They span a wide range of areas, fromartificial intelligence and robotics, to climate change, rapid urbanisation, wealthinequality, and globalisation. By understanding these trends and the forces thathave shaped the society we have today, it is also easier to predict the future.Fig. 3.2.5 System thinkingSource: A. Roumiantseva, 2016 A lot of similar design terms exist in the world of creating more sustainableproducts or services. They don%u2019t mean the same thing, but they all cover verysimilar design approaches (Tab. 3.2.1). Sustainable design is the broadestconcept. It covers the environment and social impacts. Ecodesign minimisesits environmental impact throughout every phase of the product lifecycle, andcircular design tries to use resources as efficiently as possible, ideally with nowaste.Observations Needs Ideas PrototypesInsights HMW Concepts ProductToday%u00b4s World3.2 Innovations and Design Thinking