The module focusses on questions about material life cycle analysis and the sustainable resource management. Aspects on global material flows and the impact on the location of production facilities, social impacts and the policy making will be discussed. The after- use strategies for used materials and possible effects on the environment will be analysed; this includes harmful gas emissions and the contamination of water. 

The module helps to understand the importance of materials for modern societies.  It shows the complex interaction of stakeholders in the context of material processing, production and use of products.