> At some point, high tech will be replaced with low-tech solutions that take less energy and less maintenance. Low-Tech does not automatically lead to a reduc

> At some point, high tech will be replaced with low-tech solutions that take less energy and less maintenance. Low-Tech does not automatically lead to a reduction in maintenance and energy required. Example: The electrical train systems of today are safer, more energy efficient and require less maintenance than their steam driven ancestors. Another example; Todays circuits require orders of magnitude less energy and maintenance than those built with electromechanical relais or vacuum tubes. Technology declines as a result of major catostrophes, be they socio-economic (like the fall of ancient empires) or as a result of natural catastrophes.