Example Evaluations
Real-world applications of the matrix for common purchase decisions.
Kitchen Essentials
Stainless Steel Water Bottle (1L)
| Criteria | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | 5 | Tetrahedral stainless steel, recyclable, no plastic lining |
| Long-Term Value | 5 | Lifetime with care, dishwasher safe |
| Repairability | 4 | Minor dents can be polished, replaced if cracked |
| Second-Hand | 5 | Popular, rarely damaged, easy to resell |
| Total | 19 |
A one-time purchase that replaces hundreds of disposable bottles.
Cast Iron Skillet (10")
Pre-seasoned, 8" diameter
| Criteria | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | 4 | Minimized processing, lasts generations |
| Long-Term Value | 5 | Can cook for decades, improves with use |
| Repairability | 5 | Can be re-seasoned, rust can be removed |
| Second-Hand | 4 | Good resale, but seasoning varies |
| Total | 18 |
Seasoning can be restored. Many family heirlooms are cast iron.
Personal Care Items
Safety Razor (Metal)
| Criteria | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | 4 | Minimal packaging, durable handle |
| Long-Term Value | 5 | Handle lasts decades, blades replaceable |
| Repairability | 5 | Simple mechanism, easy to clean |
| Second-Hand | 4 | Handles resell well, hygiene concerns for blades |
| Total | 18 |
Replaceable blades last weeks. Handle needs basic cleaning.
Reusable Shopping Bags (Set of 3)
| Criteria | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | 4 | Replaces thousands of plastic bags |
| Long-Term Value | 4 | Durable cotton, needs occasional washing |
| Repairability | 3 | Seams can be reinforced, holes patched |
| Second-Hand | 3 | Used bags may have stains, but functional |
| Total | 14 |
Wash after each use. Keep several so one is always clean.
Printable Reference Cards
Print these cards and keep them in your bag or wallet:
CARD 1: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Score 5: Recycled/minimal materials Score 4: Sustainable sourcing Score 3: Average materials Score 2: Some concerning materials Score 1: Harmful production/disposal CARD 2: LONGEVITY Score 5: Lifetime guarantee Score 4: 10+ years expected Score 3: 3-5 years expected Score 2: 1-2 years expected Score 1: Disposable/very short CARD 3: REPAIRABILITY Score 5: DIY repair docs, parts sold Score 4: Manufacturer supports repair Score 3: Some repair options Score 2: Limited repair options Score 1: Not repairable CARD 4: SECOND-HAND Score 5: High resale demand Score 4: Good resale potential Score 3: Moderate resale Score 2: Limited resale Score 1: No resale value
Using Examples Effectively
These examples are starting points, not final answers. Your priorities may differ. A score of 16 is still good even if it's not 19. The matrix works best when you apply it honestly to each situation.
Common mistakes:
- Rating too high because you want to justify a purchase
- Ignoring local repair availability when rating repairability
- Overlooking actual lifespan in favor of warranty length
- Assuming second-hand means used - consider rental and sharing
Last updated: January 2026 | Version: 1.2