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212
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2002
Adult
18+ years
Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart argues for a radical overhaul of Western industrial and manufacturing systems, which harm the environment in their current state. Rejecting "eco-efficiency," the authors advocate for "eco-effectiveness," where products are designed with future uses in mind. They present a model where industry enriches the environment, inspired by natural systems like trees.
Informative
Inspirational
Hopeful
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Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart is praised for its innovative approach to sustainability, emphasizing eco-effective design over eco-efficiency. Critics appreciate its forward-thinking concepts, though some argue the ideas are idealistic and lack practical application. Overall, it offers a visionary framework for sustainable development.
Readers passionate about sustainability, innovative design, and environmentalism will find Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough and Michael Braungart compelling. Fans of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson and The Upcycle by the same authors will appreciate its visionary approach to eco-friendly production and consumption.
13,846 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Michael Braungart
A German chemist and co-author of Cradle to Cradle, who has been active in environmentalism since the late 1970s and serves as the director of the Environmental Protection Encouragement Agency (EPEA). His career was notably shaped by environmental activism and work on developing safer industrial chemicals.
Industrialists
A group representing historical and modern figures focused on increasing efficiency and profit within industries. The authors depict them as initially unaware of their environmental impact, illustrating their opposition with environmentalists as a misconception.
Environmentalists
A collective of individuals and movements advocating for environmental protection, particularly during and after the 1960s. The authors argue that their focus on limiting growth could benefit from a broader vision of ecological abundance.
212
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2002
Adult
18+ years
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