The current period of conspicuous consumption will come to an end, requiring more locally-sufficient and resource-careful lifestyles. Much social interaction is likely to be more virtual than real. A wide range of lifestyles, cultures and beliefs will need to find new ways of living in close proximity and sharing experience and resources. Conflict is inevitable but also potentially catalytic. Edge Futures are a series of five books that explore the impact that climate change will have on different aspects of our lives in the future. They are available to order as individual titles or as a complete set. The Edge is an innovative and creative think-tank, sponsored by building industry professions, that seeks to stimulate public interest in policy questions that affect the built environment and to inform and influence public opinion. Geoff Mulgan is Director of the Young Foundation and former Director of Policy at 10 Downing Street.