The use of standard and age old traditional building materials like sheet rock and lumber have become outdated and undesirable due to the harm they imposes on nature. Their use has been taken over by more sustainable and recyclable materials., which support the ‘go green’ revolution to protect the valuable surroundings of the planet. It is indeed commendable to observe how unconventional and offbeat recycled junk is being utilized to construct sturdy and sustainable buildings all across the globe, getting the right support from engineers and builders globally.

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During the past decade there has been an exponential increase in number of green buildings, but the training of new builders is not keeping pace with the quick developing concepts of designing, contracting, and construction of green homes. Recently, Peterborough’s Endeavour Centre proposed a project that would build Canada’s greenest home on James St in East City with the help of 20 students.

Project aims to build Canada’s Greenest Home on James St. in East City

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Greenest Home on James St. in East City

Project aims to build Canada’s Greenest Home on James St. in East City

The main objective of Endeavour Centre is to build a two story building with 2000 square foot area. 20 local students will work on the construction of the sustainable house. The full time certificate program will allow them to know the standards and procedures, which are followed for the construction of green buildings. They will work with specialists, who have proficient knowledge about the natural building materials, water treatment and all aspects of creating a green building. During classes they will also learn about energy efficient foundations, grid tied photovoltaics, rainwater collection, composting toilets and natural paints and finishes.

The project is also aiming for the Living Building Challenge standard, which is an international certification that promotes the most advanced building techniques across the world. If accomplished, the James St. home will be the first of its kind in Canada to fully meet the Living Building Challenge standard. The project will start in May and Endeavour Centre is hoping to get in partnership with the Ryerson University and Queen University by then for co credits.

There are many misconceptions about the set up cost of green buildings, but this building will be reasonably priced. Also they will make sure that it is sustainable and provides all the desired comforts at the same time. As the project is privately funded with no government grants, the director of the project hopes that the sale of the house will be an indicator of the rising demand for green homes.

Via: Thepeterboroughexaminer

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We all are fond of street dining but growing population and limited space have made cities overcrowded. Whether it’s a mall or a park, it becomes really hard to find a seating place in primary hours of the day. With the green design named “Truck Stop”, Rux Architects have tried to overcome this problem by installing sustainable furniture at Edgar Plaza, NYC. This flexible furniture will be completely eco friendly with temporary, low cost and reusable installation.

Truck Stop by Rux

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Truck Stop by Rux

The furniture choreographs a streamlined dining experience at pique morning and afternoon hours.

The furniture will be crafted using bamboo with considerable space in serpent like shape to accommodate food trucks. This unique shape will divide Edgar Plaza into zones, serving different purpose like seating, waiting and pedestrian crossing. The street vendors can take their desired spots and serve people with delicious food and comfortable seating. It will also make dining experience enjoyable during morning and afternoon rush hours when finding proper food with adequate seating place becomes a struggle. Apart from being green, the furniture presents iconic style as well. The stylish lighting system offers an attractive and safe environment that creates an inviting ambiance.Via: Rux Design

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Production of conventional solar panels is highly expensive and the process may not always be green. A team of MIT researchers has figured out a green technique to produce solar panels using grass clippings. DIY enthusiasts will be excited to know about this project, which will help them to produce solar cells from a mix of grass or agricultural waste and other readily available stuffs.

DIY Solar Panels Made of Grass

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DIY Solar Panels Made of Grass

DIY Solar Panels Made of Grass That Anyone Can Make.

Researchers have identified that nothing in nature can soak energy as plants can. Thus, they nurtured a green solar production method by using some grass clippings, some amount of stabilizing powder, which is made of titanium oxide and zinc oxide along with a metal or glass substrate to replicate the photosynthesis process.

In fact, it has been a successful effort from the MIT researchers in chemically stabilizing the photosystem-I, the structure responsible for performing the process of photosynthesis inside plant cells. Well, the same photosynthesis will work for the new solar panels for producing power as the substrate will produce an electric current when exposed to sunlight.

The MIT researcher Andreas Mershin, hopes that in future, a mixture of all the above mentioned items will made into a paint that people can apply to their roofs in place of solar panels. Indeed, it is a brilliant idea that DIYers can simply adopt anywhere in the world.

Researchers claim that it will be easy for anyone to create solar panels quite cheaply this way. However, they are still working hard to improve the efficiency of the new solar panels. The current rate of efficiency of this technology is less than 2 percent, which should be increased by tenfold to make it a reliable source for solar energy production.

Via: GreenProphet

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Presently the world is concerned about increasing pollution and decreasing sources of energy, which is the reason why we are facing many environment related problems. Whether it is power generation or transportation, we need to bring about various improvements in order to make a greener world. For our daily transportation we definitely need an ecological form of transport. To fulfill the need a recumbent bicycle has been designed for James Dyson Award.

Recumbent with a flywheel storage

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Recumbent with a flywheel storage

Recumbent bicycle with flywheel energy storage.

The reason to make a bicycle recumbent is to minimize air resistance. The bicycle also consists of flywheel that stores energy generated by the onboard regenerative braking system. During the movement of the flywheel, when excess energy is produced, it can be stored and then released in times of need. The flywheel can also be charged using the wall socket and used as an engine capable of providing power up to 60kW. You can travel 33km at a speed of 50km/h in one charge.

The bicycle is capable of achieving speed up to 80km/h whereas the maximum achievable speed is 135km/h. Since it uses mechanical power, you don’t lose much energy while converting it from one type to another. The entire structure of the bicycle is made out of steel and weighs 35kg including the 5kg flywheel.

The inspiration behind the invention is that the existing models of bicycles use batteries which don’t perform efficiently. The maximum speed of these bikes is also not satisfactory for urban riding. Bicycles being ecologically clean, have been taken as the base for this recumbent bicycle and the two basic problems, frame and a human, the two energy sources, too have been analyzed.

Via: James Dyson Award

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The eco conscious population is making constant efforts to decrease the burden on landfills, producing and using products that have green attributes. This time around designers are launching some amazing range of bags that are functional as well as eco friendly. These designers have remarkable creative talent for using disposed materials and have used thrown away jackets, soda bottle pops, rubber tires and scrap fabrics for making some amazing designer bags.

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In light of aggravating environmental degradation, eco friendly products are gaining immense popularity. There’s a plethora of green ideas available from toys for children to exquisite serving ware, and furniture for elderly. Reclaimed timber is one such material that is being used increasingly for making various creative products. These products are unique, eco friendly as well as durable

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Over the last decade, the number of electronic gadgets in use across the globe has risen dramatically. With the growth of the personal electronics segment, the demand for electricity is growing at an unprecedented rate. However, since the infrastructure that produces and distributes electricity, called the grid, cannot be upgraded at the same rate at which the demand for the electricity is increasing, alternative methods of electricity generation are being investigated. Since around a third of the electricity produced is lost in transmission. This additional dependence on fossil fuels too can be lessened if more sustainable methods of electricity production like solar power are made more accessible to the public.

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Go green is the new anthem and almost every section of the society is now trying to cultivate a greener side to them. Newer products are launched keeping in mind their contribution to nature. Designers are motivated and are dedicating whole new lines of accessories, clothing, jewelry and beauty products to showcase their responsibility towards the environment. Their designs are beautiful, affordable, stylish and definitely kind to nature.

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With the rising environmental awareness, people nowadays are looking for different ways to reduce their ecological footprint. One good way to do the same is by opting for eco friendly gifts. Considering the uncountable number of gifts exchanged around the world every year, one can easily think of the huge impact it could make. Whether you are looking for a perfect gift for your special someone, your family or friends, you can easily find a great green gift online, which will not only impress the other person, but also make a positive difference to the environment.

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Improper management of waste has been a huge concern lately. Adequate disposal and treatment of waste, so that it does not harm the environment in any way, is very important. Waste thrown out of our homes can be easily put to good use. Urban architecture of the future should take into account all waste management challenges and seek to provide a sustainable solution. One such viable project is coming up at Providence, Rhode Island.

Into the Trenches

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Into the Trenches

It has been designed by Can Vu Bui.

A ditch, which goes 80 feet deep, would be constructed in the city. Water out flowing from the city would then be amassed there. The accumulated water will be treated and then directed back into the river through an all new low lying canyon that will be built in the city.

The space will also be a center for waste management. Today, most of the waste from Rhode Island is dumped into landfills and they will get saturated in the coming few decades. Thus, a waste management facility is really needed keeping the future in mind. Moreover, the boundary slopes of the structure will be used as a public recreation zone. Anaerobic digestors, fitted into the structure, will convert solid waste into energy. This energy will be utilized to power up the facility as well as the public space. The whole layout is planned beautifully; it looks nothing like a recycling plant. The structure has a modern built and a refreshing setting.

Via: Canvubui

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For those who want to reduce their ecological footprint and do their bit for the Mother Nature with every single step they take, what could be better than a pair of eco friendly shoes? Many companies in the market are now dealing in a range of stylish eco friendly footwear to make sure that the buyers do not sacrifice on comfort or style, while opting for green shoes. Taking into consideration the number of shoes made and worn throughout the world every year, you can well imagine the impact your choice will have on reducing carbon footprint.

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Solar power is one of the greenest sources of energy. We have seen solar powered gadgets, cars, houses etc. but this concept by Matteo Straforini is a solar powered info point where you can get information about a city. It is an urban design to make easy and ergonomic consulting. The solar panels are installed on the sail of the structure and it can rotate, following the sun’s inclination completing a rotation of 180°, just like a sunflower. A touch screen on the dashboard allows the user to access the menu, which contains different categories for browsing.

Urban landscape

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Urban landscape

It can rotate following the sun rays inclinations to optimize the energy produced.

The unique shape of the info point and its astounding ability to follow the motion of the sun are added advantages. Firstly, its ability to rotate will increase the energy efficiency of the photovoltaic panels as they will receive the sun rays throughout the day at correct inclinations. Secondly, the user and touch screen will always be under shade due to its unique shape.

Since this info station is completely self sufficient it can be installed in any part of the city where it can regularly juice up using sunlight.

Via: Matteostraforini

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Designer Bukowska Arkitekter from Stockholm, Sweden came up with the project idea of Marine Biology Field Station. The main objective behind the project was to build a power station that would be self sustaining. Also the designer intends to use it for two purposes simultaneously i.e. as a field station for producing energy and, secondly, he wants to make it an information and learning center for future use.

Marine Biology Field Station

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Marine Biology Field Station

Marine Biology Field Station

Researching the needs of algae and how it would influence the spatial organization of the structure would determine the value of the entire process. Algae requires abundant water, carbon dioxide, minerals and light for its growth. Sunlight should neither be too strong or weak. Algae have a tendency to grow and become dense and, when this happens, sunlight does not penetrate beyond 8cm. Circulating the algae would prevent it from remaining on the surface.

There are two methods for growing algae, an open system and a closed system. When algae are grown in translucent photo bioreactors, with some kind of lightning source, it is referred to as closed system. The designer explains that this is a controlled process and all visitors will be excluded. In case of open system the algae is allowed to grow in open ponds, which expose it to natural elements. It is a relatively cheaper process, but you cannot trust its vulnerability.

In conclusion, the designer decided to use a variation of open systems as a solution to this problem. Direct sunlight is not so good for algae so he enclosed the open ponds within underground barriers, which would pump algae out into the skin of the building, allowing proper management of sunlight exposure. This process will also help onlookers who seek to learn from the project as they can look from outside through the transparent fence and also they will get to see the columns of algae when it will change its appearance from transparent to an intense green mass. And finally the whole process would operate in cycles, extracting excess algae and turning it into bio fuel, which would help sustain the building with energy.

Via: Cargocollective

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Jewelry has been an all time favorite with women of all age groups as it allows them to beautify their attire and adds to the charm of their personality. What better way of designing could one think of, rather than doing it the eco friendly way, which serves a dual purpose of adorning and highlighting a woman’s innermost desires, while being gentle on the planet and the environment.

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The ever increasing use of vehicles on the roads and the emissions produced by them has affected our environment severely. Many initiatives have been taken up by eco designers, who are upbeat about promoting the use of less emission producing vehicles. The best way to reduce emissions is by using vehicles powered by electricity. Many renowned auto companies are designing such vehicles that produce lesser noise and definitely help you reduce your carbon footprint. Recently, industrial designer Niels Grubak has come up with an electric vehicle concept, named 2+.

2+ EV-Concept Car

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2+ EV-Concept Car

EV-concept for the megacity.

According to the designer, the electric vehicle concept is made for megacities that mostly deal with parking issues. The design of the electric vehicle revolves around the concept of motors, which help the vehicle’s wheels to turn 90 degrees, allowing the car to move sideways. This feature will be helpful for parking management in crowded cities. The vehicle can carry two people with luggage and four without it. The concept of the vehicle is imaginative, creative and flexible and caters to the growing need of eco friendly futuristic transportation.

Via: Nielsgrubak

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About 90 percent of wastewater produced worldwide remains untreated, causing widespread water pollution. It is estimated that a 30 floor residential accommodation pumps around 120,000 gallons of wastewater per day. According to research, this wastewater is a great source of potential energy. Recently, architectural firm Muoto has developed a concrete solution for treating wastewater pumped out from residential buildings every day. Their wastewater management plan is proposed to be set for experimentation at the residential tower Rimini, located boulevard de Choisy, in Paris.

Floor water + REHABILITATION OF IGH

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Floor water + REHABILITATION OF IGH

Floor water + REHABILITATION OF IGH

An entire floor of the premises of the tower has been dedicated for treating, recovering and leveraging the energy, to be used for community activities taking place within the tower. The floor has been reestablished in such a way that the residents can share facilities like a spa, fitness room, laundry, vegetable garden and rooms available for meeting, day care etc. The main purpose of the stage UAE + is to share available energies of the tower, including the energies from the water system.

In this way, the project uses the technical aspects of sustainable development that fulfill all natural desires of residents by improving their way of living. Not only this, they will enjoy all facilities, which are not commonly supported by today’s housing.

Via: Studiomuoto

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Designer Omer Sagiv’s futuristic Solar Powered Vehicle (SPV) is an ideal vehicle for long rides in deserts or other open lands. The SPV is a typical solar vehicle design. The aluminum structure mounts plenty of flexible thin film modules, which can generate much energy for long rides. In form, the SPV almost resembles Nuon solar car, developed by Delft University.

SPV Concept by Omer Sagiv

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SPV Concept by Omer Sagiv

SPV Concept by Omer Sagiv

The solar vehicle features a shaft in the middle, which acts as an integrated cooling system as well. The shaft rocks an aerodynamic form and the entire design of the vehicle complies with it, helping it move faster in open areas. The entire surface of SPV seems to be covered with thin film solar modules to harvest maximum solar energy even on the move.

The SPV comes with not only a solar option to charge. There is also an option to charge the electric car from home power outlets. Being a plus, extra energy can be collected from sunlight on the move. The SPV enjoys an attractive look and, of course, thanks to its aluminum body, it is glossier. Sagiv has surfaced this solar powered vehicle design as an eco friendly option for riding. In future, some manufactures may bring it into reality. Construction of the vehicle may not be much expensive, however.

Designers have come with many bizarre concepts for green cars these days. Eco friendly vehicles are gaining reputation among customers also, since the world witnessed energy crisis and also saw fuel price mount up. Indeed, solar energy is one of key sources for power in electric vehicles.

Via: Tuvie

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Green car concepts are ruling the roost these days with many individuals presenting their own visions of what an ideal eco friendly vehicle should look like. There’s a lot to be taken into consideration when dreaming up a truly green vehicle. You would have to factor in green energy, zero emissions and cost of production in terms of resources used. The result should be a car that’s reliable, cost-effective and low maintenance.

Morphex

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Morphex

Skin -nickel-titanium (NiTi)-Shape memory alloy .

A certain Romanian designer named lulian Vornicu has caught our interest with his unique car concept that can survive even in Arctic temperatures. Called Morphex, the concept vehicle was entered into the Alaska Motors Competition and though it didn’t bag any honors, it’s well worth mentioning.

Morphex is a beast of a car. Powerful looking, its body is made from shape memory alloy, an alloy that recalls its shape. In the event of scratches or grazes to the vehicle, the alloy will get back to its original shape when heated. This saves customers a lot of money on trips to workshop as they don’t need to go for paint jobs unless the damage is extensive.

Shedding the need for a windshield, Morphex instead relies on a Sonar Pulsar that can scan the environment and project what it sees into a holographic image. Since conventional windshields can be fragile in Arctic temperatures, the Sonar Pulsar takes over. Also it has a large cargo hold of 500 liters and can seat three people.

Morphex will run on two engines and hydrogen fuel cells manufactured by Ballard Power Systems. Incidentally, hydrogen fuel cells are increasingly being seen as an alternative to lithium ion batteries as hydrogen is found in abundance unlike lithium. However, Vornicu has also incorporated 10 lithium ion batteries to boost the capability of Morphex. What’s unique is that the batteries won’t need to be recharged from a conventional power source as they get their energy from friction produced by the air and the NiTi skin. Wheels with caterpillar like tracks, filled with ferrofluid controlled by a magnetic skeleton, reduces friction which saves energy and enables the vehicle to run faster.

If you’re wondering just how powerful the Morphex is, then you must know that it can hit an impressive top speed of 300 mph. This is made possible by the 1,400 hp it produces and a max rpm of 8,000. Pretty cool for something that needs to cross over vast stretches of snowy and icy terrain.

lulian Vornicu’s skill isn’t limited to automobiles and he’s also come up with cool ideas for interior home designing plans for development projects like Palas Iasi for Romania’s mixed use development market.

Via: Forge

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Porsanger Blossom can be billed as Norway’s strategy to prepare for future climate changes. These are essentially greenhouses that will help people survive in Norway, as the region is expected to witnesses large scale migration, owing to submergence of the tropical islands in the vicinity.

Porsanger Blossom

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Porsanger Blossom

They are located in the tip of Porsanger-fjord in Finnmark.

Summer sunlight and rough wave energy will be used to power these greenhouses, making them self sustainable units in the true sense. The target and challenge is immense and it is hoped that these self sustained greenhouse units will be able to serve ten million people in hard times, when the region witnesses large scale migration due to abrupt climatic change.

Use of local knowledge and skill will maximize the benefits that can be derived from Porsanger Blossom. Located in Finnmark, the region is exposed to heavy wave motion and therefore, the greenhouses have been given a modular design, which will maximize the kinetic energy captured by the energy handles. Porsanger Blossom is a true innovation that has been designed keeping the needs of future generations in mind.

Also, Norway has been a hub for Marine research technology and Porsanger Blossom is being seen as preserver of frozen samples of crops. With time and concerted efforts on part of the scientific community, Porsanger Blossom can develop as a global plant bank, with frozen samples of plant species that originate in the tropical region.

Norway government has been working on a prototype of this plant bank that can serve as a gene bank for the flora of neighboring islands like Tuvalu, Maldives, Tonga and Marshall Island.The adaption process has been initiated and the prototype of the flora is being developed to make the crop seed accessible. Maintaining a region specific culinary identity will be possible with the execution and implementation of Porsanger Blossom concept, as people from neighboring tropical islands will have access to the culinary delicacies of their region.

Via: Cargocollective

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As our conventional sources of energy are about to go extinct, scientists are developing unique and indifferent technologies to meet the global demand of energy. Carl Peart, a Mexican student, entered the ‘Create the Future Design Contest, 2011′, with this unique design to produce clean energy. Named ‘Solar collection and Transfer Satellite’, it uses the system of Electro Mechanical Batteries to store energy, which is collected by the solar panels installed on the satellite. EMBs are simple and have amazing potential to store energy.

Solar Energy Collection & Transfer Satellite

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Solar Energy Collection & Transfer Satellite

The Satellite collects energy through the incorporated solar array.

A composite flywheel spins with an electric motor and is comprised within a battery. The flywheel using magnetic force floats in a vacuum chamber and can spin at speeds above 60,000rpm. The chamber is almost friction-less which makes it possible to store energy for a long period of time. The electricity can be used by slowing down the flywheel and using the motor as a generator.

Energy is collected by the satellite using parallel connected solar panels. After storing this energy a microwave antenna transfers it to earth where a rectenna converts it back into electricity. The antenna can be repositioned; hence energy can be easily transferred to various locations on the earth, from one position in the orbit. The system features easy access doors and also allows easy replacement of worn batteries. The batteries are placed on a circular plate which rotates. They are mounted in a way which helps nullify gyroscope. Each satellite contains 360 batteries with a capacity to hold about 25 kWh each.

In future, this satellite can be used for producing and storing clean energy. It would constantly provide clean energy for meeting the rising global demands.

Via: Techbriefs

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The hybrid pedal transportation endeavors to bring in an all new class of transportation for modern commuting. We all are aware about the environmental pressures that are building up as roads are clogging with rapidity, constantly anguishing the scientific world. As an answer to this problem, designer David Bonanni, has came up with a healthy alternative in the form a hybrid tricycle, which comes loaded with both, functionality and aesthetic beauty.

Hybrid Pedal Transportation.jpg

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Hybrid Pedal Transportation.jpg

Hybrid Pedal Transportation.jpg

Starting with the physical description of the hybrid transporter, you’d be amazed that the designer has integrated it with the best traits of the three main transporting mediums availed on the road i.e. a car, a bicycle and a scooter. The chassis is designed similar to a car, but with two wheels in the front and only one at the rear. It embodies the lightness of a bicycle, and therefore will not consume huge amounts of energy for running around. Lastly, its dimensions are compact like that of a scooter, which allow you to swivel it around comfortably through congested alleys.

Now talking about the technical aspects of the Pedal Transportation, as the name suggests it is a hybrid vehicle that works with a brushless motor, allowing it to advance on the road with the help of pedal assistance. Besides this, it also has a pivoting front, which imparts greater agility to the vehicle and is not a common feature among other similar mediums. Since it is a three wheeler the need for parking tripods too has been eliminated.

Once out on the roads, the hybrid pedal transport will impress you with its sporty looks and relaxing ambiance. The addition of green technology makes it worthy of our modern times, when most of us our grappling to assimilate eco friendliness, efficiency and visual harmony.

Via: Davidebonannidesign

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Does your idea of a perfect trip mean getting close to nature that comprises of jungles and coral reefs? If yes, then you surely are an eco adventurer who would embrace the idea of eco tourism like no one else. It is a fast catching trend and there are many who’d like to spend a few days connected with nature. The fragile and protected areas that make eco destinations provide ample opportunities for nature lovers to explore animal and plant species commonly unknown, and this is an added advantage.

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The world is now taking green living seriously in view of the increased damage being caused to the environment. Manufacturers of consumer products are looking at eco friendly resources for producing goods and are also utilizing what is known as eco packaging to market their products. These packages made from biodegradable materials are replacing plastic and metal rapidly. If every manufacturer joins the bandwagon, we may soon see the world get rid of plastic, leaving the earth cleaner and healthier.

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Many innovative creations are yet to see the light of day despite being practical and forward thinking. Funding is one major issue, curbing their designs. Luckily, there are organizations and foundations that seek to give creative people a platform where ideas can be generated and, hopefully, come to life. We recently stumbled onto a handy concept entered as part of the James Dyson Foundation Award. Presented as Austria’s entry, it is called Open Privy and envisions a waterless toilet system that is easy to use and eco friendly.

Open Privy- the top soil lodge

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Open Privy- the top soil lodge

Open Privy- the top soil lodge

Most toilets are designed for use indoors and require a lot of water to flush. This can be a problem if you live in areas where water is scarce. The waterless toilet is based on the Bukashi method of composting. Open Privy can be installed in the outdoors or in the bathroom. If it’s placed in the open, rainwater can be collected and allowed to filter down to a downpipe. Bent metal and willow sticks have been woven to cover the toilet and guard against weathering. A hinge that connects the toilet’s inlay, seat, downpipe and cover masks the smell, letting air circulate freely.

Open Privy serves as a good method of composting and enhances the top soil effectively to act as a natural fertilizer. Users can choose to either throw away the excrement collected or reuse it in the composting process. Ideal for use in places where water isn’t in abundance, Open Privy is also a solution to those disadvantaged areas that cannot afford to build water-guzzling toilets.

The toilet has been built such that it can be dismantled which serves as the perfect solution for rehabilitation centers in times of natural and man-made disasters. Easily maintained and hygienic, we‘re hoping that Open Privy will soon be mass produced.

Via: JamesDysonAward

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