This latest book in "Rob Thompsons" series of highly acclaimed reference guides for design students provides an understanding of the environmental impact of materials, manufacturing processes and product lifecycles, and a guide on how to select and use them in an intelligent way. Divided into three easily referenced parts Materials, Processes and Lifecycle the book is packed with practical information and in-depth analysis on 15 materials, 14 processes and six production lifecycles. Each material, process or production lifecycle features a full technical description, concise notes for the designer on its suitability, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact, and fully illustrated, step-by-step case studies showing a product, component or material being manufactured by a leading international supplier.