The Evolution of Global Industry and Manufacturing Concepts

The Evolution of Modern Industry

The First Industrial Revolution (c. 1770–1850)

Modern industry began in Great Britain. Industrial labor was carried out by machines, generally powered by steam engines fueled by coal. Manufacturing was focused in large mills or factories where many workers specialized in producing just one component, which was then assembled. This process resulted in abundant and cheap products.

During this period, industries were typically located near:

• Mining regions or other sources of energy (coal).
• Ports, cities, or train stations.

These factories created significant pollution, which explains why the area in England where the revolution started was historically known as "The Black Country."

The Second Industrial Revolution (c. 1850–1950)

This period saw greater flexibility in the choice of industrial locations. Industries that preferred proximity to consumers clustered on the outskirts of cities.

The most typical industrial landscape was the **Industrial Estate**, organized into plots with industrial spaces equipped with essential services, infrastructure, and transport facilities.

Contemporary Industry and the Third Industrial Revolution

Contemporary industry emerged in the mid-20th century thanks to innovations from what is known as the Third Industrial Revolution. Industrial labor now relies heavily on technology, utilizing:

• Computer-controlled machines
• Industrial robots
• New materials
• New energy sources

Key Industrial Concepts and Locations

Offshoring (Relocation)

This is the transfer of a company's production processes to a different country than where the headquarters are based. This is often done to capitalize on factors such as lower labor costs or more favorable economic conditions in the host country.

Industrial Estates

These are designated areas where the government provides necessary facilities and factory accommodation to entrepreneurs for establishing their industries.

High-Tech Industries

These industries are primarily located in the most developed countries because they require:

• Advanced services and infrastructure.
• A qualified labor force.
• Consumers with higher purchasing power.

However, high-tech industries are increasingly spreading towards developing countries such as China and India.

Science Parks

These are physical locations designed to promote innovation. They support collaboration between universities, industry, and government to improve high-technology development and advanced knowledge. A famous example is Silicon Valley in San Francisco, California.

Classification of Industries by Product

Heavy Industry

Transforms raw materials into semi-finished products to be used in other industries (e.g., steel, petrochemistry). This sector uses large quantities of heavy raw materials.

Capital Goods Industry

Transforms semi-finished products into equipment needed for other industries, transport, and construction. This sector uses fewer raw materials compared to heavy industry.

Consumer Goods Industry

Produces items intended directly for consumers (e.g., textiles, food, household appliances). This sector typically uses lightweight materials.

Addressing Energy Challenges

Solutions to Energy Problems

Energy policies are implemented to address environmental and consumption issues. These include:

• Policies aimed at reducing emissions from major energy-producing facilities and the transport sector.
• Energy saving policies designed to reduce overall energy consumption.