Geoff Isaac — researching the role of design in solving the plastics crisis.
Geoff Isaac is a design historian and researcher whose work explores how designers are rethinking materials in response to environmental challenges. He holds a PhD from the University of Technology Sydney, where his doctoral project examined the history of the plastic chair and how designers are embracing recycled plastics, bioplastics, and low-energy manufacturing to reduce waste and material use.
Geoff’s new book, Rethinking Plastics in Product Design (Bloomsbury Academic, 2025), builds on this research to show how sustainability and innovation are reshaping product design.
His earlier monograph, Featherston (Thames & Hudson, 2017), reflects his enduring interest in Australian mid-century design and the work of Grant Featherston.
Explore my work
Chair Database — A resource documenting the evolution of the plastic chair
ERPR Tool — Compare the environmental impacts of design decisions when working with plastic
Publications — Books, articles, and research papers
Blog— Renewable plastics and industry news for designers and manufacturers of consumer products
- Contact – Interested in research collaboration, speaking, or media commentary?
My latest blogs
