Definition and Origin
Intermediate technology, also known as appropriate technology, refers to simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that economically disadvantaged farmers and rural people can purchase or construct from locally available resources. The concept was first conceived by German-born British economist E.F. Schumacher after a visit to Burma (now Myanmar) in 1955. Schumacher believed that poor countries could achieve progress in productivity by adopting advanced technologies adapted to their unique needs, rather than relying solely on capital-intensive and energy-intensive solutions.
Key Facts
- Definition and Origin:
- Intermediate technology, also known as appropriate technology, refers to simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that economically disadvantaged farmers and rural people can purchase or construct from locally available resources.
- The concept of intermediate technology was first conceived by German-born British economist E.F. Schumacher after a visit to Burma (now Myanmar) in 1955.
- Schumacher believed that poor countries could achieve progress in productivity by adopting advanced technologies adapted to their unique needs, rather than relying solely on capital-intensive and energy-intensive solutions.
- People-Centered Approach:
- Intermediate technology is designed to focus on people rather than machines, aiming to improve their well-being while being more harmonious with the environment and traditional ways of life.
- It emphasizes the importance of considering social and cultural factors in technological solutions.
- Range of Solutions:
- Intermediate technology solutions can range from relatively basic devices made from old machine parts, cloth, or wood to more advanced technologies such as energy-efficient lightbulbs and solar-powered devices.
- These solutions can address various needs, including agriculture, water supply, energy, healthcare, and housing.
- Combination of Research and Simple Materials:
- Intermediate technology solutions often combine cutting-edge research with simple materials to address specific challenges.
- For example, medical research into the spread of cholera led to the use of cloth filters made from old clothing to collect water, reducing pathogens in poor villages where disinfectants and fuel for boiling water are not readily available.
- Local Participation and Acceptance:
- Intermediate technology solutions are generally developed in conjunction with local residents to ensure their relevance and acceptance.
- However, there have been cases where these solutions failed to win over villagers, highlighting the importance of understanding local preferences and priorities.
People-Centered Approach
Intermediate technology is designed to focus on people rather than machines, aiming to improve their well-being while being more harmonious with the environment and traditional ways of life. It emphasizes the importance of considering social and cultural factors in technological solutions.
Range of Solutions
Intermediate technology solutions can range from relatively basic devices made from old machine parts, cloth, or wood to more advanced technologies such as energy-efficient lightbulbs and solar-powered devices. These solutions can address various needs, including agriculture, water supply, energy, healthcare, and housing.
Combination of Research and Simple Materials
Intermediate technology solutions often combine cutting-edge research with simple materials to address specific challenges. For example, medical research into the spread of cholera led to the use of cloth filters made from old clothing to collect water, reducing pathogens in poor villages where disinfectants and fuel for boiling water are not readily available.
Local Participation and Acceptance
Intermediate technology solutions are generally developed in conjunction with local residents to ensure their relevance and acceptance. However, there have been cases where these solutions failed to win over villagers, highlighting the importance of understanding local preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
Intermediate technology plays a crucial role in sustainable development by empowering people, especially in rural and economically disadvantaged communities, to improve their livelihoods and well-being. By focusing on local resources, people’s needs, and environmental sustainability, intermediate technology offers an alternative to conventional development models that often exacerbate social and environmental problems.
References
- Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopedia. “Intermediate Technology.” Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2023, www.britannica.com/technology/intermediate-technology.
- “Appropriate Technology.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 Jan. 2024, Web. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appropriate_technology.
- United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. “The Impact of Rapid Technological Change on Sustainable Development.” UNCTAD, United Nations, 17 Feb. 2020, unctad.org/publication/impact-rapid-technological-change-sustainable-development.
FAQs
What is intermediate technology?
Intermediate technology refers to simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that economically disadvantaged people can purchase or construct from locally available resources. It focuses on people rather than machines and aims to improve well-being while considering social, cultural, and environmental factors.
Who developed the concept of intermediate technology?
German-born British economist E.F. Schumacher first conceived the concept of intermediate technology after a visit to Burma (now Myanmar) in 1955. He believed that poor countries could achieve progress in productivity by adopting advanced technologies adapted to their unique needs.
What are the benefits of intermediate technology?
Intermediate technology offers several benefits, including:
- Improved livelihoods and well-being for economically disadvantaged communities
- Increased productivity and efficiency in various sectors, such as agriculture, water supply, energy, healthcare, and housing
- Reduced environmental impact and promotion of sustainability
- Empowerment of local communities through participation in the development and implementation of technological solutions
What are some examples of intermediate technology?
Examples of intermediate technology include:
- Hand-operated water pumps
- Solar-powered lights
- Biogas digesters
- Improved cookstoves
- Grain mills
- Small-scale irrigation systems
How does intermediate technology contribute to sustainable development?
Intermediate technology contributes to sustainable development by:
- Providing affordable and accessible solutions to meet the basic needs of communities
- Promoting local resource utilization and reducing reliance on imported technologies
- Empowering communities to develop and implement their own technological solutions
- Minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices
What are the challenges associated with intermediate technology?
Challenges associated with intermediate technology include:
- Limited access to resources and funding for research and development
- Lack of technical expertise and skilled labor in rural and disadvantaged communities
- Difficulty in scaling up and replicating successful intermediate technology solutions
- Potential resistance to change and adoption of new technologies
How can intermediate technology be promoted and supported?
Intermediate technology can be promoted and supported through:
- Government policies and initiatives that encourage the development and adoption of intermediate technology
- Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations to provide funding, technical assistance, and training
- Investment in research and development to improve existing intermediate technologies and develop new solutions
- Education and awareness campaigns to inform communities about the benefits of intermediate technology
What is the future of intermediate technology?
The future of intermediate technology is promising, as it aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable development and the need for locally-appropriate solutions to global challenges. Continued advancements in technology and increased collaboration among stakeholders can further enhance the impact of intermediate technology in improving the lives of people in disadvantaged communities.