Materials and Sustainable Development

Materials and Sustainable Development,Second Edition,is a book that provides a structure and framework for analyzing sustainable development and the role of materials in it. It aims to introduce ways of exploring sustainable development that avoid simplistic interpretations and approaches complexity systematically. The book recognizes the concerns of stakeholders, conflicting priorities, and the economic, legal, and social aspects of technology and its environmental legacy. It does not offer solutions to sustainability challenges but rather to improve the quality of discussion and enable informed, balanced debate.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 584 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Elsevier - Health Sciences Division

Materials and Sustainable Development, Second Edition, authored by renowned materials selection authority Mike Ashby, offers a comprehensive structure and framework for examining sustainable development and the pivotal role of materials in achieving it. The book's primary objective is to introduce readers to sustainable development in a manner that eschews simplistic interpretations and approaches complexity in a systematic manner. Recognizing that there is no definitive answer to questions of sustainable development, the book provides a thoughtful and well-researched response that acknowledges the concerns of stakeholders, conflicting priorities, and the multifaceted economic, legal, and social aspects of technology and its environmental legacy. Rather than presenting solutions to sustainability challenges, the book's aim is to enhance the quality of discussions and foster informed and balanced debates. This revised edition has been meticulously updated to incorporate recent insights, regulatory trends, and other developments that have emerged since the publication of the previous edition.

In Chapter 1, "Introduction to Sustainable Development," Ashby provides a foundational understanding of sustainable development, defining it as the process of meeting present human needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. He emphasizes the importance of considering the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental factors in achieving sustainable development. Chapter 2, "Materials Selection for Sustainable Development," delves into the critical role of materials in promoting sustainable development. Ashby discusses the importance of selecting materials that have minimal environmental impact, are renewable, and are recyclable. He also highlights the significance of considering the life cycle analysis of materials, including their extraction, processing, use, and disposal, to minimize their overall environmental footprint.

Chapter 3, "Life Cycle Assessment and Sustainability," explores the methodology of life cycle assessment (LCA) as a tool for evaluating the environmental impact of materials. Ashby explains how LCA can be used to assess the cradle-to-grave environmental consequences of a material, including its extraction, processing, use, and disposal. He also discusses the limitations and challenges of LCA and provides guidance on how to interpret and apply the results. Chapter 4, "Materials and Energy Efficiency," examines the relationship between materials and energy efficiency. Ashby discusses the importance of selecting materials that have low energy consumption during production, use, and disposal. He also highlights the role of energy-efficient technologies and practices in reducing the energy demand and environmental impact of materials.

Chapter 5, "Materials and Climate Change," explores the role of materials in addressing climate change. Ashby discusses the impact of materials on greenhouse gas emissions, the carbon footprint of materials, and the potential for materials to mitigate climate change. He also highlights the importance of sustainable materials selection in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and other infrastructure. Chapter 6, "Materials and Waste Management," examines the challenges of managing waste and the role of materials in waste reduction and recycling. Ashby discusses the importance of designing materials that are recyclable and biodegradable, as well as the development of waste management technologies and practices. He also highlights the role of circular economy principles in reducing waste and promoting sustainable materials use.

Chapter 7, "Materials and Society," explores the social and ethical implications of materials selection and use. Ashby discusses the importance of considering the social and economic impact of materials, including their impact on communities, workers, and the environment. He also highlights the role of sustainable materials selection in promoting social justice and equity. Chapter 8, "Materials and Policy," examines the role of policies and regulations in promoting sustainable materials selection and use. Ashby discusses the importance of government policies, industry standards, and certification systems in driving sustainable materials development and adoption. He also highlights the challenges and opportunities of policy implementation and suggests strategies for effective policy development and implementation.

In conclusion, Materials and Sustainable Development, Second Edition, provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of sustainable development and the role of materials in achieving it. Authored by a renowned expert in materials selection, the book offers a structured approach to understanding complex sustainability challenges. By presenting a thoughtful and well-researched response that recognizes the concerns of stakeholders, conflicting priorities, and the economic, legal, and social aspects of technology and its environmental legacy, the book aims to enhance the quality of discussions and foster informed and balanced debates. The revised edition has been updated to reflect recent insights, regulatory trends, and other developments that have occurred since the publication of the previous edition, ensuring that readers are equipped with the most current knowledge and tools for promoting sustainable materials selection and use.

Weight: 940g
Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323983617
Edition number: 2 ed