How much further should the affluent world push its material
consumption? Does relative dematerialization lead to absolute decline in
demand for materials? These and many other questions are discussed and
answered in Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization.
Over the course of time, the modern world has become dependent on
unprecedented flows of materials. Now even the most efficient production
processes and the highest practical rates of recycling may not be enough
to result in dematerialization rates that would be high enough to negate
the rising demand for materials generated by continuing population
growth and rising standards of living. This book explores the costs of
this dependence and the potential for substantial dematerialization of
modern economies.
Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization considers the
principal materials used throughout history, from wood and stone,
through to metals, alloys, plastics and silicon, describing their
extraction and production as well as their dominant applications. The
evolving productivities of material extraction, processing, synthesis,
finishing and distribution, and the energy costs and environmental
impact of rising material consumption are examined in detail. The book
concludes with an outlook for the future, discussing the prospects for
dematerialization and potential constrains on materials.
This interdisciplinary text provides useful perspectives for readers
with backgrounds including resource economics, environmental studies,
energy analysis, mineral geology, industrial organization, manufacturing
and material science.
