The concept of sustainable manufacturing is often touted as a solution to the environmental and social crises plaguing our planet. However, beneath the surface of eco-friendly packaging and recycled materials lies a deeper underpinning: colonialism. The notion of sustainability has evolved from Western values of consumption and progress, which have been imposed on the world through colonialism and imperialism. The manufacturing processes and systems that shape our understanding of sustainability are deeply rooted in colonial processes and systems. The notion that certain industries or technologies are superior to others is a legacy of colonialism, where Western powers imposed their own standards and values on colonized societies. This has led to a global system where certain countries and corporations have dominated the development and implementation of sustainable manufacturing practices.
The concept of sustainable manufacturing is often built upon colonialist structures, where corporations and governments from wealthy countries exert control over resources, labor, and markets in poorer countries. This perpetuates a system of exploitation, where the pursuit of profit over people and the environment is justified by the narrative of “development” and “progress”. Ultimately, this means that the manufacturing processes themselves must be decolonized, moving away from centralized, top-down approaches that prioritize consumerism and productivity as well as dismantling the colonialist structures that have historically controlled the extraction, processing, and distribution of natural resources.
The global energy landscape, dominated by fossil fuels, is a prime example of the lasting impact of colonialism. The exploitation of fossil fuels, particularly in Africa and Asia, was facilitated by colonial powers, who extracted resources for their own benefit and often left local communities with devastating environmental and health impacts. Today, the rush to transition to renewable energy is also shaped by colonialist dynamics, as Western corporations and governments exert control over emerging technologies and markets. The extraction of rare earth minerals, essential for the production of solar panels and wind turbines, is often linked to colonialism and environmental degradation. By acknowledging the historical and ongoing role of colonialism in shaping our global energy landscape, we can work towards a more just and equitable transition to renewable energy that prioritizes the well-being of communities and the environment.