If you’re a maker just starting out your journey in sustainability, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to get started. From understanding the types of materials to utilize, learning what steps will help reduce waste and emissions, and finding inspiring new ways to explore creativity that don’t have a negative environmental impact. The good news is there are plenty of resources available for DIYers looking for ways to make their projects more sustainable – from simple switches you can make today, big-picture ideas for longterm change, or exciting new ways makers are helping push sustainability into the future. In these blog posts we’ll look at tips tricks and ideas specifically tailored towards diyers and makers on the road to creating projects with greater eco consciousness so that not only will you create something beautiful but also respect its impact on our planet!
Antique voltmeter displays current air quality from the web – By Tom Igoe… One thing that disappoints me about computers is how little character they possess. Antique instruments of information display, like Victorian pendulum clocks, barometers, and compasses, and Babbage’s calculating engines, have a presence that modern computers lack. I dig the look of the […]
Dean sent in this really interesting build of a VW Microbus model. The original kit was a VW Beetle, but not much of the final vehicle was original. Click through the website to see a lot more information about the build. More about Modifying a VW Beetle model
(images via dartmouthwaveenergy.com) A horrible name and simple design for pumping water (which can then drive turbines) via wave action on a buoy tethered to the ocean floor (via Treehugger). Not suddenly solving all the world’s energy woes, but large numbers of this relatively simple, DIY-friendly design could have a nice impact towards sustainability…
While most major computer manufacturers have recycling programs in place, television makers aren’t doing quite as well: With only three months to go until the digital TV conversion, the Electronics TakeBack Coalition (ETBC) today released its new TV Recycling Report Card, grading the major TV manufacturers on their efforts to establish national programs to take […]
The work with sprouting seeds is rinsing them: don’t rinse enough and you get really unappetizing mold in with your fresh greens. Here’s a solution to that problem that makes your toilet a little less wasteful. In action: Of course, you have the added benefit of the odd looks you’ll receive when you explain that […]
The talks of bailing out GM (and other auto-makers) are dominating the headlines, it’s an interesting debate and I think we (the USA) will end up “bailing them out” – not because it will save them, but because it will postpone an even harsher economic reality. I’m curious what the makers here think – it’s […]
From the MAKE Flickr photo pool Arms22 shares this oddly stealthy example of DIY audio – converting a couple of empty grandes into computer speakers using a TDA1552Q amplifier chip. Nice reuse – looks natural too! The relevant page is in Japanese but you can still check out the schematic – Coffee cup speakers
