ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Dematerialization (economics)

Dematerialization is when economic activities are carried out without the use of physical objects or materials. Instead of buying products in a store, you might use an app or website to get them. Instead of taking a bus, you might take a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Instead of using paper books, you might read an e-book on a tablet or smartphone. Dematerialization makes activities faster, easier, and more affordable.