Unless you are floating naked through space you are always in direct contact with multiple manufactured products. An awe-inspiring global system enables virtually every aspect of our existence, surrounding us with items which have already taken byzantine journeys:  thousands of litres of water for example are needed to make a pair of jeans whilst our smart phone components travel over six times around the world before reaching their destination.

From mega factory floors, engineering laboratories and seaports to distribution hubs, supermarkets and our own homes these journeys reveal the hidden world of manufacturing and the seismic impact it has. Could it offer a path to a truly sustainable future?

Tim Minshall is Professor of Innovation at the University of Cambridge, head of the Institute of Manufacturing and a Fellow of Churchill College.

‘A mind-boggling exploration of a global choreography that means I won’t look at my kettle the same way again.’

Zoe Laughlan