Materials and Dematerialization: Making the Modern World

Vaclav Smil's book "Materials and Dematerialization" examines the critical topic of sustainable resource use, highlighting the dependence of the modern world on materials and the challenges of dematerialization. It explores the extraction, production, and applications of various materials, including wood, stone, metals, alloys, plastics, and silicon, and examines the energy costs and environmental impact of rising material consumption. The book concludes with an outlook for the future, discussing the prospects for dematerialization, potential constraints on materials, and an updated appraisal of material requirements and prospects during the coming decades.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2023
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

MATERIALS AND DEMATERIALIZATION World-renowned scientist Vaclav Smil examines a critical topic in the research and policy domain of sustainable resource use. 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. 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, along with the relationship between socio-economic development and resource use, including major technological and innovation aspects. The book concludes with an outlook for the future, discussing the prospects for dematerialization, potential constraints on materials, and an updated appraisal of material requirements and prospects during the coming decades. Building on the success of his 2013 book, Vaclav Smil has thoroughly revised this landmark text to highlight advances that have taken place over the last decade, including a thorough review of statistics and references to 2022. This updated edition also includes new content to explicitly address material for global energy transition and for securing food for a still growing global population. Praise for the 1st edition "Vacl. Smil's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet's resources. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable resource use." "Smil's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet's resources. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable resource use."
Vaclav Smil, a renowned scientist, delves into the critical topic of sustainable resource use in his book "Materials and Dematerialization." The modern world has become heavily reliant on vast flows of materials, and even the most efficient production processes and recycling rates may not be sufficient to achieve dematerialization rates that can keep up with the increasing demand driven by population growth and rising living standards. The book explores the principal materials used throughout history, including wood, stone, metals, alloys, plastics, and silicon, covering their extraction, production, and applications. It also examines the evolving productivities of material extraction, processing, synthesis, finishing, and distribution, as well as the energy costs and environmental impact of rising material consumption. Additionally, the book delves into the relationship between socio-economic development and resource use, including major technological and innovation aspects. The concluding chapter provides an outlook for the future, discussing the prospects for dematerialization, potential constraints on materials, and an updated appraisal of material requirements and prospects over the coming decades. Building on the success of his 2013 book, Smil has thoroughly revised this landmark text to incorporate advancements made in the last decade, including a comprehensive review of statistics and references updated to 2022. The updated edition also includes new content specifically addressing materials for global energy transition and food security in a world with a growing population. Praise for the first edition of the book has been overwhelming, with reviewers highlighting its comprehensive and insightful analysis of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable resource use. Smil's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet's resources.

Weight: 680g
ISBN-13: 9781394181209
Edition number: 2 ed