Object-Oriented-Upcycling: An object-based approach to the circular economy

This paper introduces a preliminary framework to address upcycling from an object-oriented perspective. Upcycling is defined by Wegener as: “the perfect mix between ‘upgrading’ and ‘recycling’. To upgrade is to add value and to recycle is to reuse” (Wegener, 2016). This process connects with Aristotelian notions of design and productive knowledge which are concerned with something coming into being and competing standards of value (Galdon, 2019). In this paper, we are approaching this process from an Object-Oriented-Ontology. For Harman the research programme of OOO is precisely focused “to magnify the tensions between the object and its appearance to consciousness, or the object and its qualities”, by invoking “the constant formation of hybrid entities in which humans’ fuse with non- humans” (Harman, 2015). We do so by conducting a case study on furniture design. In this context, a bidirectional multi-level taxonomy is presented to address notions of design, manufacturing, sustainability, circularity and respect for the environment. Based on research findings, the authors recommend the integration of Object-Oriented-Upcycling strategies in the design process, as they insert a method for the re-materialisation of local waste into usable furniture