EN
The paper presents a proposal on ecological education for future engineers specialising in commodities science, in accordance with principles of sustainable development. On the basis of a series of lectures called “Product design and innovation”, a number of tools helpful in achieving this goal are discussed. The principles governing ecological design (ecodesign) in accordance with basic European Union directives (directives IPP, EEE, WEEE, RoHS) are also presented. Making use of recommendations contained in “PILOT” makes it possible to choose the proper ecodesign methods. With this tool, particular phases of the product lifecycle can be considered and shaped in such a way as to minimise their influence on the environment, since ecodesign enables new generation products to be produced, creates new challenges for designers, producers and consumers in putting into practice the principles of sustainable development. This is why the education of future product managers is so important.