How do materials of the past and present hold the keys to our future?

‘Why Materials Matter’, a book written by Seetal Solanki and published by Prestel tackles this critical statement by discussing potential materials related solutions to the ecological, social and economical issues faced by human beings today.

Our book presents a colourful panoply of ideas, technologies and creative efforts that focus on the earth’s most basic elements, demonstrating how process and application have the ability to transform them into new, responsible materials.

Explorations of resourceful projects by designers, artists, makers, and scientists were affirmed by our implementation of a long-term vision for a more responsible future.

Projects and processes contained within ‘Why Materials Matter’ explore everything from how ancient practices such as dyeing fabric and making glue may hold the secret to renewable and earth friendly consumer products to how recycling plastics can tackle food waste and how a type of light metal being developed may one day make air travel less fuel reliant.

Our book also investigates the potential of the digital experience, suggesting how this most ephemeral, untapped matter can be used to improve our world.

Eye catching and provocative, ‘Why Materials Matter’ serves as both a stimulating catalogue of possibilities and a timely manifesto on how to consume, manufacture and design for a better future.

Credits: Publishing, Prestel; Commissioning Editor, Ali Gitlow; Copy Editor, Aimee Selby; Foreword, Liz Corbin; Graphic Designers, Our Place; Photography, Dilesh Solanki and Extract, G . F Smith.