Far in the future ...

Anything manufactured contained always-connected nanotechnology, therefore traceable if not entirely consumed or digested.

Joseph Shannon's grandson, Frank, delivered a short eulogy.

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"My grandfather, Joseph Shannon, founded the nanotechnology ubiquitously used today. His greatest achievement to save our planet. His legacy we'll honor, only for now. For as he advocated, he too shall recycle ..."

While Frank spoke, an AI robotic assistant called forth all of Joseph Shannon's material possessions. The nanotech inside broke them down into microspheres, rolling into a pit, which swirled and blended for the recycling.

"One world preserved—so many lifetimes forgotten."