Future-proofed technology

Created by the American architect William McDonough and the German chemist Michael Braungart in 2002, the Cradle to Cradle design principles represent the most ambitious product certification standard in the world. The framework, standard and certification have been created by the Institute, which aims to support sustainable development and circular change, by introducing a replaceable, customizable and upgradeable approach to products. Bang & Olufsen’s approach to replaceable, customizable and upgradeable products is an addition to the Institute’s specific requirements in the standard. What’s more, it’s science-based, volunteer-led and audited by a third party, ensuring that the rigourous standards it sets are adhered to as closely as possible.

Furthermore, critical components will be serviceable, while our new replaceable streaming module has been front-loaded with the technology to improve performance over time and receive new features via software updates. Even the module itself can be replaced if streaming technology becomes outdated. Meanwhile, the Beosound Level has been built so that it can be easily disassembled, to support a resource-efficient technical recycling process. We have also ensured that it has been designed and manufactured with more than 50% post-consumer recirculated plastic materials – all aimed at reducing waste and obsolescence.

We are proud to have become the first Consumer Electronics brand to have Cradle to Cradle certification – but we know there’s always room for improvement. Which is why our ambition isn’t simply to be the first, but also the most committed to circular design.