Social Productivity of Material Labour & the Elasticity of De-Industrialisation

The concept of "Social Productivity of Material Labour" proposes a human-centric approach to production, emphasizing the qualitative value of human skills and knowledge in achieving economic and environmental sustainability. This model suggests that human productivity is optimized in de-industrialised environments, where individuals can fully utilize their skills and adaptability.

Contents:

1. Human Skills in De-Industrialised Environments
2. The Byproducts Economy and Resource Efficiency
3. Elasticity of De-industrialization
4. Implications for Sustainability
5. Summary
6. Related Articles
7. External Weblinks

Human Skills in De-Industrialised Environments

This approach recognizes that human workers possess a diverse range of skills beyond the mere operation of machinery. These skills encompass craftsmanship, problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. In de-industrialised production settings, which may include batchlot processing, artisanal manufacturing, and repair-based industries, these human skills are brought to the forefront. Workers are active participants in the production process, contributing their knowledge and ingenuity to solve problems and innovate. This fosters a sense of ownership and engagement, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

The Byproducts Economy and Resource Efficiency

The "Social Productivity of Material Labour" model aligns with the principles of the Byproducts Economy, which focuses on maximizing resource utilization and minimizing waste. Low-tech environments often involve smaller-scale production and localized supply chains, reducing transportation costs and environmental impacts. By treating waste streams as valuable resources and utilizing them within local networks, the Byproducts Economy further promotes circularity and resource efficiency.

Elasticity of De-industrialization

A key aspect of this model is the concept of "Elasticity of De-Industrialization." This refers to the ability of an economy to readily adapt and transition away from traditional, resource-intensive industrial production towards more sustainable, human-centered models. Flexibility allows for a dynamic response to changing economic and environmental conditions, ensuring that human skills and knowledge remain central to the production process.

Implications for Sustainability

By prioritizing human skills and de-industrialised environments, the "Social Productivity of Material Labour" model promotes environmental decoupling – the ability to achieve economic growth without increasing environmental pressure. This approach challenges the traditional notion that economic progress necessitates increased resource consumption and environmental degradation. Instead, it suggests that by optimizing human capabilities within appropriate technological contexts, we can achieve economic prosperity while minimizing our ecological footprint.

Summary

The "Social Productivity of Material Labour" model presents a compelling vision for a sustainable future, where human ingenuity and resourcefulness are valued and utilized effectively. By embracing de-industrialised solutions, promoting the Byproducts Economy, and fostering an "elasticity of de-industrialization," we can create a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally conscious economy. This model encourages further research and exploration to fully understand its potential in achieving a truly sustainable society.

Related Articles

• Abundance and Environmental De-Coupling
• Absorptive Potential and Sustainable Growth
• One Cell (Metaphysical) Model and Enviro-Economic Systems
• Microeconomic Liberalisation and the New International Division of Labour (NIDL)

External Weblinks

• ByProducts Economy (+BP Money) & Environmental De-Coupling Infopage