Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization by Vaclav Smil

Dematerialization has been described as changing the balance in the global energy balance, a transition topost-industrial production, and a pathway towards abundant energy. In his book, Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization, Vaclav Smil builds a comprehensive picture of the materials that compose the modern world and the forces that drive the process of dematerialization.

Smil's account of the materials that shape our global environment is thorough, concise, and presented in a very streamlined manner. He begins by discussing the basics: energy and energy-rich materials, raw materials, recyclables, and components. He then goes on to consider other areas such as communications technology and infrastructure, biotechnology and green chemistry, and transport networks.

The next section of Smil's book looks at the forces that drive the process of dematerialization. He identifies two key elements to this process - automation and renewable energy. Automation refers to the use of machines to do work such as assembly line production and robot factories, while renewable energy refers to the use of alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower. Smil looks at how these elements affect the overall amount of materials consumed, as well as how the demand for materials is shifting from the traditional sources to emerging technologies.

The third section of Smil's book takes a closer look at the effects of dematerialization on the global economy. He examines the implications of the changing energy landscape and material flows, as well as the resulting impacts on employment, production, trade, and economic growth. Smil also looks at the disruptive possibilities of new energy sources and advanced technology, as well as the risks posed by these disruptions.

Finally, Smil looks at the policy and regulatory challenges that accompany the transition to a more dematerialized global economy. He examines the hurdles preventing more efficient use of materials and resources, as well as how existing policy frameworks and environmental regulations can be better incorporated into the global development agenda.

In sum, Smil's Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization presents a comprehensive view of the materials that comprise the modern world and the forces that determine the evolution of dematerialization. From energy and material flows to the implications of policy and regulation, Smil provides a comprehensive look at the forces driving the dematerialization of the global economy. His approach is both analytical and accessible, making this an invaluable source of information for anyone looking to understand the complexities of the modern world.