Intermediate technology is a development concept that encompasses simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that economically disadvantaged farmers and other rural people can purchase or construct from resources available locally. It focuses on people rather than machines, aiming to be more harmonious with the environment and traditional ways of life.
Key Facts
- Origin: 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. He believed that poor countries could achieve progress in productivity by adopting advanced technologies adapted to their unique needs.
- Purpose: Intermediate technology aims to provide solutions that are more productive than traditional technologies but less costly than industrialized technology. It seeks to bridge the gap between inefficient traditional methods and expensive modern technologies, promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction.
- Local Resources: Intermediate technology emphasizes the use of resources that are available locally. It encourages farmers and rural communities to utilize materials and tools that can be easily obtained within their own environment, reducing dependence on external resources.
- Environmental Considerations: Intermediate technology is designed to be more environmentally friendly. It takes into account the impact of technology on the environment and promotes sustainable practices. By focusing on appropriate and efficient technologies, it aims to minimize resource depletion and environmental degradation.
- Examples: Intermediate technology solutions can range from basic devices made from old machine parts, cloth, or wood to more advanced technologies such as energy-efficient lightbulbs or solar-powered devices. It can also involve larger-scale solutions like modern industrial factories that utilize waste parts of crops for production.
Origin and Purpose of Intermediate Technology
The concept of intermediate technology was first introduced by German-born British economist E.F. Schumacher after his 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. Intermediate technology aims to provide solutions that are more productive than traditional technologies but less costly than industrialized technology. It seeks to bridge the gap between inefficient traditional methods and expensive modern technologies, promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction.
Local Resources and Environmental Considerations
Intermediate technology emphasizes the use of resources that are available locally. It encourages farmers and rural communities to utilize materials and tools that can be easily obtained within their own environment, reducing dependence on external resources. This approach not only promotes self-sufficiency but also supports local economies and reduces the environmental impact associated with the transportation of goods.
Intermediate technology is designed to be more environmentally friendly. It takes into account the impact of technology on the environment and promotes sustainable practices. By focusing on appropriate and efficient technologies, it aims to minimize resource depletion and environmental degradation. Examples of environmentally conscious intermediate technologies include energy-efficient lightbulbs, solar-powered devices, and passive solar building designs.
Examples of Intermediate Technology Solutions
Intermediate technology solutions can range from basic devices made from old machine parts, cloth, or wood to more advanced technologies such as energy-efficient lightbulbs or solar-powered devices. It can also involve larger-scale solutions like modern industrial factories that utilize waste parts of crops for production. Some notable examples of intermediate technology applications include bike- and hand-powered water pumps, the bicycle, the universal nut sheller, self-contained solar lamps and streetlights, and passive solar building designs.
Intermediate technology has been used to address issues in various fields, including water and sanitation, energy generation and use, transportation, healthcare, food preparation and storage, information and communication technologies, and finance. Its applications demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of this approach to meet the diverse needs of communities around the world.
Conclusion
Intermediate technology plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction by providing practical and affordable solutions that are adapted to the unique needs of disadvantaged communities. By focusing on local resources, environmental considerations, and people-centered design, intermediate technology empowers communities to improve their well-being and achieve progress in a sustainable manner.
References
- “Appropriate Technology.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 28 Apr. 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appropriate_technology.
- “Intermediate Technology | Sustainable Development, Appropriate Technology & Poverty Reduction | Britannica.” Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 26 Apr. 2023, www.britannica.com/technology/intermediate-technology.
- Dunn, P. D. “Intermediate Technology and Appropriate Technology.” SpringerLink, Springer, Dordrecht, 1978, link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-349-16064-8_3.
FAQs
What is intermediate technology?
Intermediate technology is a development concept that encompasses simple and practical tools, basic machines, and engineering systems that economically disadvantaged communities can purchase or construct from locally available resources. It focuses on people rather than machines, aiming to be more harmonious with the environment and traditional ways of life.
What is the purpose of intermediate technology?
Intermediate technology aims to provide solutions that are more productive than traditional technologies but less costly than industrialized technology. It seeks to bridge the gap between inefficient traditional methods and expensive modern technologies, promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction.
How does intermediate technology promote sustainable development?
Intermediate technology promotes sustainable development by emphasizing the use of local resources, reducing dependence on external resources, and minimizing environmental impact. It focuses on appropriate and efficient technologies that aim to conserve resources and protect the environment.
What are some examples of intermediate technology solutions?
Examples of intermediate technology solutions include bike- and hand-powered water pumps, the bicycle, the universal nut sheller, self-contained solar lamps and streetlights, passive solar building designs, energy-efficient lightbulbs, and solar-powered devices.
How does intermediate technology contribute to poverty reduction?
Intermediate technology contributes to poverty reduction by providing affordable and practical solutions that enable disadvantaged communities to improve their livelihoods. It promotes self-sufficiency, supports local economies, and creates opportunities for income generation.
What are the benefits of using intermediate technology?
The benefits of using intermediate technology include increased productivity, improved efficiency, reduced environmental impact, promotion of sustainable practices, and empowerment of local communities.
What are some challenges associated with the implementation of intermediate technology?
Challenges associated with the implementation of intermediate technology include lack of access to resources, limited technical expertise, cultural barriers, and resistance to change.
How can the adoption of intermediate technology be encouraged?
The adoption of intermediate technology can be encouraged through government policies, international cooperation, capacity building, awareness campaigns, and the involvement of local communities in the design and implementation of technology solutions.