Which of the following terms best embodies the concept of reducing material usage while maintaining the same output?

Dematerialization is the process that embodies the concept of reducing the amount of material used in production or the functioning of a product, while still achieving the same output or performance. This approach focuses on optimizing resource efficiency, which contributes to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste and energy usage associated with the lifecycle of materials.

In practice, dematerialization can involve redesigning products to use fewer materials or adopting new technologies that allow for the same functionality with less mass. This concept aligns with sustainability goals by promoting a circular economy where efficiency and reduced resource consumption are paramount.

The other options, while related to sustainable practices, do not capture the essence of reducing material usage specifically. Recycling refers to the process of converting waste materials into new products, which does not necessarily imply a reduction in material use for the same output. Disposal involves getting rid of waste and does not promote sustainability, while reusability pertains to the act of using an item multiple times before it's discarded, which may not inherently reduce material consumption.