Welcome to the Glass Age

176 in developing such information sources and helping with translation into a wide range of languages. An important part of the validation of such information is a formal refereeing process. The internet and intelligent search engines allow the effective sharing of such information but can also be a way in which erroneous information becomes incorporated into the knowledge base. Of course, the internet and textbooks offer written and much duplicated records of man’s knowledge but are less effective at conveying skills, an important aspect of education. The skills of the glass blower are only passed on efficiently by demonstration and practical experience. Recordings on YouTube are a poor substitute for working with an expert. This is being recognized in advanced countries that are now keeping a record of skills that are at risk, for example the making of glass eyes is recognized as almost a lost art in the UK. Education and professional societies For the general public, a quality education is the foundation for sustainable development. An inclusive education can also equip local communities with the tools required to develop innovative solutions to the world’s pressing problems. A well- rounded education provides insights into the way society has coped with change over many millennia. Institutions that promote educational opportunities, also conduct basic research, organize well attended conferences, and publish advances in both glass science and engineering in highly respected journals or as highly acclaimed textbooks. At the same time their educational activities will be formally monitored and accredited by mutual comparison and often with the assistance of unbiased Professional Societies. Glass making is highly skilled and numerous establishments offer courses a) for glass artists, b) the technicians to run factories and c) the research workers who use the unique properties of different glasses to create new products for the many challenges civilization faces. While specific data summarizing their annual economic impact are not available, it is clear a) they are located throughout the world and b) they are vital for advancing the fields of glass science, engineering and art. Many of these activities are nurtured and chronicled by the International Commission on Glass —now in its 89 th year of operation. Within ICG, Technical Committee 23 has been specifically tasked with the mission of stimulating an understanding of glass and promoting interaction among experts in glass science and technology, art, history, and education. It has for example produced a database of Figure 11.6. Cover of the ICG book ‘Teaching Glass Better’.