The Armen Show 217: Vince Beiser | How Sand Served As A Natural Resource That Transformed Civilization
Sand is one of the overlooked natural resources of the world, and is a huge part of the cities that we live and transport around in. In his book The World in a Grain: The Story of Sand and How it Transformed Civilization, journalist Vince Beiser speaks to the importance of this resource, as well as the stories related to its acquisition and usage.
Vince has served as a journalist in over 100 countries, reported from California’s harshest prisons, ridden with first responders, and contributed to Wired, The Atlantic, Rolling Stone, the LA Times, and more. He continues to work as an award-winning journalist based in Los Angeles.
Show notes:
- why sand on beaches is at risk of being reduced all around the world
- how violence is attached to battles for sand in some parts of India and elsewhere
- where sand operations have allowed for building of whole cities
- what sand is used to build, and what other substances come from sand
- how reinforced concrete became the main element for strong buildings
- how more cars leads to more paved road, which led to more cars
- why is it worthwhile to look at sustainability and personal usage of cars and fuel sources in relation to sand limits and violence related to it
I was glad to have Vince on the show. You can check out his book The World in a Grain on Amazon, or check out his website.