One way of assessing a product’s impact on Earth is by analyzing the product’s durability and reusability. For a product to last, it needs to be physically, functional, and stylistically durable. That is, the Reach aims to be a product that resists damage but also gets better and more desirable over time.

Product durability is impinged upon by many factors, starting with the selection of materials. The Reach is mostly made out
of stainless steel, wood, and nylon. Stainless steel was ideal for the foundation of this product due to the metallic mechanical properties that make the material strong and the aesthetic properties that allow change in color and give it artistic versatility. Stainless steel is a steel alloy with approximately seventeen percent chromium content and one percent carbon content. The amount of chromium present allows stainless steel to form a passive film of chromium oxide which prevents further corrosion, making this material more durable than other types of metals. More specifically, when compared to other metals, 440C stainless steel had the highest strength to weight ratio, second highest endurance, and shorter elongation (higher stiffness), which allow the material to last longer before deformation. The second most used material in The Reach is Woodstalk Gold MR Fiberboard used for the base of the pole and many of the attachable units. This is an environmental friendly material that has been made out of wood-based fibers bound together using a formaldehyde resin. This alternative to wood-based particleboard is very cost-effective. Compared to other products, it is 10-20% lighter. Tool wears and replacement are also reduced. The consistency of the board improves the cutting, laminating, and routing operations, which can lead to a higher quality product as well as providing both energy and monetary savings. This material is also easy to use and customize. For example, it is very simple to laminate and to coat with a variety of materials and there are less rejected products because of its consistent machinability. In addition, the material is designed to have high quality and durability, such as higher hanging strength and a smooth and uniform surface which gives designers a lot of constructing and styling opportunities.

Additionally, small amounts of nylon were used to keep the units in place. Because nylon is a synthetic plastic, it is engineered
to be highly resistant to attack from natural nesters such as molds, insects, and fungi making the material durable in many environments. Nylon is not affected by alcohol, solvents, and oils, and has a very high heat and absorption resistance. Since nylon is such a light, thin, and flexible material, we have also considered using it for a few of the units that can be attached to the pole. The adaptability of nylon allows for multiple uses and distinct fashions which contribute to aesthetic durability.

Nevertheless, functionality and the quality of the system designed for the user experience of this product play the largest role in its durability. The Reach incorporates a system that allows the product to evolve as technology and user intent change. The user interaction of this product works similarly to that of an iPhone. That is, because the units are separate from the pole itself, units can be consistently updated so that they fit the users wants and needs without ever having to get rid of the main product. The user might replace a few units, but the foundation of the product can be used perpetually.