ClimateJuly 8, 2026
deindustrialization
/ˌdiːɪndʌstrialaɪˈzeɪʃən/
Definition
The decline or reduction of a nation's traditional manufacturing and industrial base.
Etymology
Derived from the prefix 'de-' (meaning removal or reversal) and 'industrialization' (the development of industry). It reflects the socio-economic transition where countries shift away from a heavy reliance on manufacturing sectors.
In the news
The article uses the term to clarify that America's reduction in per-capita energy consumption was driven by efficiency improvements rather than a loss of industrial activity. It counters the assumption that the economy simply used less energy because manufacturing moved overseas.
The “soft energy path” at 50: America’s road half-taken
Read the full article ↗Frontier Group