This unusual book was translated from the German edition. Sascha Peters is a Berlin-based consultant focused on materials development and engineering. He conducts research, teaches at Kunsthoch-schule Berlin-Weissen, lectures, and writes columns and books promoting increased communication between designers and engineers--hoping to speed up the creative use of new materials as a means of dealing with looming shortages and ubiquitous waste. This book is an abundantly illustrated presentation of currently marketed materials that are bio-based, biodegradable, recycled, shape-changing, multifunctional, energy-generating and light-influencing; coverage also includes lightweight construction and insulation materials, and sustainable production processes. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)