The discovery of vast quantities of crude oil in Saudi Arabia changed the course of history and global politics. We are still overwhelmingly reliant on fossil fuels for our comfort and survival, even as their use ushers in a new era of climate change. Paradoxically, in the story of 'energy transition', fossil fuels may be our best option for building a sustainable future.

'Material World: A Substantial Story of Our Past and Our Future', written by Ed Conway, explores which materials we have relied upon to build civilisations and how we will use them to forge our future.

Abridged by Anna Magnusson
Read by John Hollingworth
Produced by Naomi Walmsley Show less