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AUGUST 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 19 while others are powered by renewables—can be factored into the design's overall sustainability. A carbon footprint comparison is shown in Figures 1 and 2. By providing this level of insight, the tool empow- ers designers to make sustainability a measurable part of the design process. This innovation repre- sents a significant step forward in aligning the PCB industry with global sustainability goals. It moves sustainability from an abstract concept to a quantifi- able metric that can drive tangible improvements in design practices and manufacturing strategies. A Call to Action As the industry continues to prioritize sustainability, designers have a unique opportunity to make a dif- ference. By committing to good design practices, leveraging IPC standards, and utilizing advanced tools like the carbon footprint predictor, they can create products that perform better and leave a smaller environmental footprint. Manufacturers must also play their part by col- laborating with design teams to ensure designs ▼ F i g u re 2 : T h e c a r b o n fo ot p r i nt a n a l ys i s fo r t h e s a m e exa m p l e d e s i g n a s F i g u re 1 w i t h g re at l y re d u c e d c a r b o n fo ot p r i nt , h av i n g b e e n o pt i m i ze d to i m p rove y i e l d s a n d u t i l i ze l owe r c a r b o n -fo ot p r i nt m ate r i a l s a n d p ro c e s s e s , ref l e ct i n g a n i m p rove m e nt i n c a r b o n fo ot p r i nt of ~ 2 6 % . are production-ready. Open communication between design and manufacturing teams can uncover potential challenges early, reducing the risk of remakes and overages. Furthermore, adopt- ing tools that highlight a design's environmental impact will help both manufacturers and designers make sustainability-driven decisions. In conclusion, sustainability in PCB manufactur- ing begins with design, but it doesn't end there. By embracing IPC-compliant design practices, lever- aging cutting-edge tools, and fostering collabora- tion between teams, the PCB industry can reduce waste, conserve resources, and create a greener future for electronics. DESIGN007 Gerry Partida is vice president of technology at Summit Interconnect.