Electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) contributes significantly to global waste, with millions of tons discarded annually and only a fraction properly recycled. While existing research focuses on optimizing end of life recovery and material extraction, early stage design (ESD) remains underexplored in terms of its potential to embed sustainability and circularity from the outset. This study investigates current scientific literature on ESD tools and methods structured within the Double Diamond framework, encompassing Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver phases, specifically within the context of EEE. A broader comparative analysis includes general product and component design to identify gaps and limitations in EEE specific approaches. A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted, resulting in the selection of 30 papers for full analysis. Bibliometric mapping and cluster analysis were employed to identify thematic concentrations, underrepresented areas, and missing conceptual connections. Results indicate that while early design methods emphasize ideation, simulation, and prototyping, critical circularity principles, such as modularity, disassembly, traceability, and extended producer responsibility, are largely absent from EEE focused literature. Digital tools like virtual and mixed reality are used for iteration but seldom linked to lifecycle or environmental considerations. Comparative insights from general product design literature show stronger integration of lifecycle analysis and stakeholder engagement, yet they too fall short of addressing EEE’s specific sustainability challenges. This research concludes that early-stage design in EEE lacks the interdisciplinary integration needed to align with circular economy goals. Future work should focus on embedding environmental foresight and regulatory frameworks into early design tools, enabling more sustainable and resilient EEE innovation from the beginning.
Hidalgo-Crespo et al. (2026) studied this question.