changing product design expectations

Using the updated search in your Groups feature, I see that some of you have read Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart.

There is a new title out by this team, The Upcycle which I'm working my way through now.
They make large claims and throw big names around.

I wonder if this philosophy is taking root in design and engineering schools.

I see another title by Anna Marshall Baker - Cradle to Cradle Home Design: Process and Experience, but not available in my library system.

Has anyone had any personal brush with this concept?

BTW, I've added a couple of links on the author pages.