Durable Economies: Organising the Material Foundations of Society

What significance does longevity have in economic systems? The book "Durable Economies" analyses historical, cultural and political aspects of durable goods, their role in a circular economy, and the impact of digital technologies on product lifespan. It provides guidance for researchers and policy makers to understand and ideally promote longevity in the economy.

The concept of the durable economy is placed in the context of the traditional view of consumption and production, and it is shown how durable products can reduce the consumption of resources through less frequent new purchases. Particular attention is paid to the cultural and social aspects that influence the acceptance and use of durable products.

A central theme of the book is the examination of various business models based on the longevity of products. These models include approaches such as leasing, repair and reuse, which help to extend the life of products and thus minimise resource consumption. Another important aspect is the importance of information management in promoting product longevity.

It also discusses how retailers can promote more durable products and how user narratives influence the perception and use of electronic devices. Policy frameworks and regulations are considered necessary to support and promote long-life economic practices. In this context, it is also discussed how regulations can promote the longevity of products.

A further chapter is dedicated to the scalability of durable designs, using the example of modular smartphones to show how technological innovations can contribute to the development of durable products. Finally, we discuss how long-lasting economic systems can be organised to ensure environmental sustainability.

A systemic shift towards sustainable economies is essential in order to reduce the ecological footprint and achieve sustainable development goals. It calls for greater cooperation between politics, business and society in order to promote and implement sustainable practices.

You can access the book here: