Sustainable solutions are like provision for the rainy days. Man’s rebellious nature compelled him in the past to go against nature and build houses and factories and walk on roads and fly machines that took him around the world. Now, time again demands humans to rebel and make new discoveries to solve problems that are repercussions of his own actions and inventions. Read on to know more about a few remarkable innovations for sustainability.
1. Construction materials and surfaces that reduce our impact: Eco from Cosentino
A Spanish brand Cosentino has recently added to its portfolio an eco friendly countertop which is composed of 75 percent recycled material like glass, porcelain etc and 25 percent of other salvaged material. An Italian Company Italcementi has developed a coating of titanium for cement, exterior paints etc. When this titanium mix comes in contact with sunlight it gets activated and crystallizes the contaminated particle. Many such coatings are being developed by other companies that have great amount of gas absorption power to reduce the contamination levels in the air, especially for areas with heavy traffic.
2.Tires that are more effective against climate change
Electric cars have been long in the picture, yet their affordability and lack of charging stations on the road remains a concern. Therefore, European countries are venturing into the domain of non- contaminating tires that will economize on fuel and also reduce noise pollution. The EU nations want to introduce a legislation to further legitimize the use of these eco friendly tires and the genesis of a labeling system is already in the pipeline. If successful, this movement will spare 20 million tons of carbon dioxide and save 13 billion worth of fuel.
3.Transparent solar cells that can be put into windows
Windows that are capable of generating power that would easily last the whole night are the new things to look out for. Konarka, the solar firm based in Massachusetts, chose to partner with Arch Aluminum & Glass which is a constructing firm. They are collectively undertaking the development of such windows. The windows will come incorporated with transparent photovoltaic cells to generate energy along with insulating against weather. The solar cells in the windows should not necessarily be transparent, they can have color tints too. The technology still needs some more work to become widely accepted and used.
4. Electric motorcycles of the future: Zero Motorcycles Zero S electric
For eco friendly bikers, there is a good news. Zero Motorcycles from California is out with its electric model Zero S. It weighs 225 pounds with 31 horsepower and a top speed of 70 mph. Zero S will cost 9500 dollars which exceeds about 4000 dollars of worth for a normal 250 cc bike, but its environmental friendly character justifies the cost. In comparison to cars, bikes produce 10 times greater smog producing emissions including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides etc. Therefore, it will be a sensible move to switch over to electric bikes.
5. “Green” applications for iPhone, Android, BlackBerry OS, Windows Mobile
App Stores, especially of Apple too have advanced into the field of applications that will help reduce carbon footprint. The most outstanding of these applications are as follows:
1. Greenpeace tissue guide: assesses the impact of paper products including toilet paper, napkins and others
2. Stanza: for people who love reading and yet don’t support paper wastage, can use this application to read their favorite books
3. GoodGuide: this application helps you compare products and make decisions.
4. Locavore: Locates vegetable vendors, especially those who supply organic food items.
5. Vine: In times of emergency or during a natural calamity, this application helps you remain connected with your iPhone contacts.
