Product service systems as advanced system solutions for sustainability

Abstract

Sustainable Product Service Systems (PSS) are package solutions of products and services that are combined to directly satisfy client demands, while creating a low environmental impact. PSS offers are in contrast with product sales offers which rather indirectly serve the demands. From an environmental point of view, PSS solutions are often less material-intensive compared to product-based solutions. Therefore PSS, if designed properly, can effectively contribute to achieving the sustainability goal of decoupling value creation and resource consumption. This paper reviews most recent research of PSS and introduces several interesting examples on the market, in order to help researchers and entrepreneurs understand the concept. A number of socio-economic trends underpinning the substantial advent of PSS strategies and a series of arguments regarding their sustainability will be outlined. Based on the study, a practical mental model is suggested within the frame of sustainable development.