Radical Matter: Rethinking Materials for a Sustainable Future

Radical Matter: Rethinking Materials for a Sustainable Future explores eight "Big Ideas" that will shape and inform the choices of materials, design methods, and manufacturing processes made by designers in the years ahead. It draws from a global community of designers pushing boundaries with new and disruptive approaches to sustainable design, focusing on holistic systems of design, production, and consumption. The book includes fully illustrated case studies from leading designers and engineers and offers expert ideas and solutions to global changes faced by the design and manufacturing industries.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 04 July 2019
\n Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd
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Radical Matter: Rethinking Materials for a Sustainable Future delves into eight transformative 'Big Ideas' that will shape and guide the future choices of materials, design methodologies, and manufacturing processes made by designers. This comprehensive book draws from a diverse global community of designers who are pushing the boundaries of sustainable design by employing innovative and disruptive approaches to materials and design processes. By embracing holistic systems of design, production, and consumption, we can strive for a world that benefits the environment, society, and economy. Material innovation will play a pivotal role in achieving this goal, as it enables the creation of sustainable materials that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

The eight 'Big Ideas' in this book explore the themes and ideas that are shaping our material world through cutting-edge case studies and expert insights. These ideas include:

1. Today's Waste, Tomorrow's Raw Material: This idea highlights the potential of turning waste materials into valuable resources through recycling, upcycling, and other sustainable practices. It emphasizes the importance of reducing waste and maximizing the use of available resources.

2. Natural Assets: This idea recognizes the inherent value of natural resources and the need to protect and conserve them for future generations. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable sourcing, responsible use, and the preservation of biodiversity.

3. Shit, Hair, Dust: This idea explores the potential of using waste materials such as human waste, hair, and dust as raw materials for manufacturing. It challenges the traditional notion of waste disposal and highlights the potential for innovative and sustainable solutions.

4. Material Connections: This idea emphasizes the interconnectedness of materials and their impact on the environment and society. It explores the role of materials in shaping cultural, social, and economic practices and highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in designing sustainable materials.

5. Co-Creation: This idea emphasizes the importance of collaboration and engagement between designers, engineers, and stakeholders in the development of sustainable materials. It highlights the value of involving diverse perspectives and expertise in the design process to create innovative and effective solutions.

6. Designed to Disappear: This idea explores the concept of designing materials that have a minimal impact on the environment and can be easily recycled or decomposed at the end of their life cycle. It emphasizes the importance of designing for disassembly and the reduction of waste generation.

7. Living Materials: This idea focuses on the use of materials that are derived from living organisms or have biological properties. It explores the potential of using materials such as biomaterials, bioplastics, and biocomposites to create sustainable and biodegradable products.

8. Future Mining: This idea explores the potential of mining and extraction of materials from the Earth in a sustainable and responsible manner. It emphasizes the need for responsible resource management, renewable energy sources, and the conservation of natural ecosystems.

Each 'Big Idea' in Radical Matter is accompanied by fully illustrated case studies from leading designers and engineers who are at the forefront of material and design technology. The book provides a wealth of expert ideas and radical solutions to the current global changes faced by the design and manufacturing industries. It serves as a valuable resource for design professionals and students seeking to turn revolutionary concepts into reality.

In conclusion, Radical Matter: Rethinking Materials for a Sustainable Future presents a compelling vision for a future where materials are designed with sustainability in mind. By embracing innovative and disruptive approaches, we can create a world that benefits the environment, society, and economy. Through the exploration of eight 'Big Ideas' and the inclusion of expert insights, this book provides a valuable resource for design professionals and students seeking to turn revolutionary concepts into reality.

\n Weight: 990g\n
Dimension: 253 x 215 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780500295397\n \n