Ergoecology: fundamentals of a new multidisciplinary field

Abstract

This article conceptualises a new multidisciplinary field by establishing the elements of an ‘ergonomic system’ (human beings, physical space and object/machine) and defining the term ‘surroundings’ (PESTE factors) while emphasising the ecological aspects of human activities. The definition of ergoecology is explained by an etymological analysis of the names of the contributing disciplines (ergonomics and ecology). The new multidiscipline combines and extends the scope of the two foundational disciplines using new principles, notions and concepts, such as ‘built environment’, ‘surroundings’, ‘ergoecology’, ‘ecoefficiency’ and ‘ecoproductivity’. The aim of ergoecology is to provide tools for confronting twenty-first century challenges. In line with the sustainability movement, we believe in the importance of using ecologic and ergonomic perspectives (in their broadest sense) to develop action aimed towards environmental preservation and the development of sustainable products, processes and service designs.

Keywords:

• ergonomic system
• ergonomics
• ecology
• ergoecology
• ecoefficiency
• ecoproductivity

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Andrew S. Imada and Ralph Bruder, who encouraged us to publish this work. We also appreciate the support of the Research Office (DIB) [Dirección de Investigaciones Sede Bogotá] of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the support of the Design Department of the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana – Bogotá.