Ed Conway

Ed Conway, an economics journalist and author of 'Material World,' dives into the impactful role of materials in advancing civilization. He reveals how glass drove scientific breakthroughs, linking Renaissance art to modern technology. Iron and coal's transformation led to the steam engine's rise, but today's steel production poses significant CO2 challenges. Meanwhile, copper is crucial for electrification yet faces scarcity and environmental hurdles. Conway emphasizes the trade-offs of materials, highlighting our past's influence on the future.