Society's Metabolism

Society's Metabolism

Society’s metabolism refers to the interactions between society and nature, characterized by the flows of materials and energy—ranging from the extraction of raw materials and their transformation into goods and services, to the release of waste, emissions, and the conversion and use of energy. This metabolism is shaped by a society’s modes of production (economy), technological infrastructure, and cultural lifestyles.

This course introduces students to methods for assessing the impacts of societal metabolism on the Earth's physical and biological systems. Key themes include the Anthropocene, the Economics of the Anthropocene, the environmental and social consequences of metabolic processes, resource and energy scenarios, water systems, and the global food system.

Each session combines in-depth discussions of assigned readings, lectures by course instructors or guest speakers, and interactive components such as class exercises and student presentations.

The course also includes compulsory workshops based on the principles of Blue Engineering, fostering creative, interdisciplinary learning. These workshops provide an open learning environment for students to explore various dimensions of society–nature relationships while critically reflecting on their own ecological and social responsibilities.

This course is part of the joint degree MSc Industrial Ecology, offered by Leiden University and Delft University of Technology. More information about the course is published in the online study guide of Leiden University