The Materials Economy and Modern Consumption Cycles
1. The Five Stages of the Materials Economy
The materials economy consists of five main stages:
- Extraction: This is when natural resources are taken from the Earth, such as trees, water, oil, and minerals. This process often damages the environment.
- Production: Raw materials are turned into products in factories. During this stage, many toxic chemicals are used.
- Distribution: Products are transported and sold to consumers. Companies try to keep prices low to encourage more buying.
- Consumption: People buy and use the products. Our society encourages constant consumption.
- Disposal: When products are no longer wanted, they are thrown away, usually ending up in landfills or incinerators.
7. Externalizing Production Costs
Externalizing costs means that...