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.
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Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9781118697979
Publisert
2014
Utgave
1. utgave
Utgiver
Vendor
Wiley Professional, Reference & Trade
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Digital bok
Forfatter