Constructing a cleaner world

The four materials that make up almost everything – concrete, steel, plastic and fertiliser – are also some of the biggest polluters. Maikel Kuijpers examines the alternatives for a more sustainable future.

Plastic is a brilliant material. But our relationship with it is trash

The most important invention of the 20th century keeps us alive but is killing the environment. The solution? Eat less meat

We can’t stop using steel. Here’s how we can make it the foundation of a new, sustainable iron age

Concrete is one of the most polluting materials in the world. Here’s how we can make it sustainable

The materials that build our world are also destroying it. What are the alternatives?