Smart Green World?

Smart Green World? was written by Steffen Lange and Tilman Santarius, emerging from their ongoing research into the intersection of digitalization and ecological sustainability. Published in 2020, the book serves as a critical examination of the 'green growth' narrative, challenging the assumption that digital technologies will naturally lead to a more sustainable society. It was developed to address the paradox where increased efficiency in digital tools often leads to higher total resource consumption due to rebound effects.

The design and conceptual framework of the book were intended to provide a systematic critique of current tech-optimism. By synthesizing complex academic discourse on ecological economics and digital sociology, the authors created a resource for policymakers and activists looking to navigate the 'digital transition' thoughtfully. The work has been received as a foundational text for those studying the social and environmental implications of the information age, valued primarily for its rigorous questioning of whether a truly sustainable digital world is possible under existing economic structures.