MARCH 31st, 2010
Spanish illuminists reclaimed the streets for an night in Brooklyn with their installation Literature versus traffic. The artists spent 2 days combining some 800 books with lights, before taking to a Brooklyn street in the early hours and laying them on the road. As you can see above, the results were ethereal and provoking. The artists hope their piece will be the first of many battles to be won against traffic. For more pictures from this and other installations, check out their website at luzinterruptus.com
MARCH 31st, 2010
Interactive designers ENESS have created a telescope that contains the entire known universe. Point the telescope in any direction and it will show you a 3D simulation of everything that exists in that area of space. The telescopes are meant to serve as an on-going reminder as to how amazing our universe is and to inspire people to care more about our planet. For more information about this and some other amazing installations, their website electronicmiracles.com is well worth a visit.
MARCH 31st, 2010
Older people may be able to fend off the dreaded care home with robotic help in the future. Scientists from the University of the West of England have been testing a robot based system of caring in the UK and the Netherlands. The projects consists of a wearable health status monitor, a health reporting alarm and meal and drink reminders. These are linked to a robotic platform that will help people to stay in touch with relatives, create voice activated shopping lists, and lose convincingly at Bridge. Admittedly I made up the Bridge part, but all told the future looks brighter for independent living.
Source: phenomica
MARCH 30th, 2010
Windows are undoubtedly brilliant, providing free light and views of the outside world. Technologically speaking though, they haven’t really moved on since double glazing was invented in the 1930’s. Until now that is: The Kyosemi Corporation have just unveiled transparent solar panels, capable of being integrated into decorative domes, glass bricks and windows.
The Sphelar solar cells are solidified drops of silicon, 1.8mm across. As well as being transparent, their spherical nature means they can pick up sunlight from all angles and therefore at all times of day. Sometime soon, glass towers such as the London Gherkin should be able to generate their own power.
Source: dvice
MARCH 30th, 2010
Do you have a penchant for stinky food and an aversion to scrubbing? The Kuro Cube could be just the product for you. Danish company Sort of Coal have developed a small cube made from compressed charcoal that absorbs unpleasant odours in your fridge. The cube also absorbs humidity, helping to keep your food fresh for longer. Each cube lasts for several years and once finished can be easily smashed up and put on your compost tip. Perfect. The Kuro Cube can be ordered here.
MARCH 30th, 2010
Photographer Jeremy Cowart has created an incredible website that is updated daily with photo’s from Haiti. The photo’s show many different aspects of life in Haiti, from hospitalised children to US soldiers. Each of the photo’s subjects are given a chance to jot down a thought and hold it up to camera. This project is a brilliant way of giving a voice back to Haitians, at a time when many seem to be speaking on behalf of Haiti instead of actually speaking to Haitians. Each photo is available to buy in a 16″ x 20″ signed print, with proceeds going to aHomeinHaiti.org.
MARCH 29th, 2010
Greenpeace have released a hard hitting video that attempts educate buyers of nestle products to the devastating consequences of some of the companies policies . The video claims that Nestle’s irresponsible palm oil sourcing is destroying the natural habitat of the Orang-Utan. You can find the video here, be warned though: it’s probably best not be tucking into a chocolate treat when you settle down to watch it.
Source: ActionAid
MARCH 29th, 2010
Designers from around the globe will be heading to East London this April to take part in the annual Alternative Fashion Week. The event champions recycled textiles, ethical sourcing and sustainable design. Fourteen different designers will show each day, with free admission to all of the shows. If you fancy yourself as an eco-fashionista, you can’t afford to miss it.
Alternative fashion week runs from 19th - 23rd April, and is held at the Spitalfields Traders Market, Crispin Place, Brushfield Street, E1 6AA. Start planning your wardrobe!
Source: SustainableFashion
