Energy & Sustainability

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!

Magbot solar pendulum

Gary Gipson was inspired by the Magbot Pendulum project in Dave Hrynkiw’s wonderful Junkbots, Bugbots & Bots on Wheels. Greg made a few changes. He put the electronics package on a little swinging bot and made the permanent magnet stationary to the base. The bot’s LED eyes light up when he first starts out over […]

Solar system tips

From Holy Scrap Hot Springs, Mikey and Wendy have some helpful tips for anybody considering a solar system: The federal tax credit for residential solar installations becomes uncapped starting January 1, which can mean more rebate if you want to setup your own system!

Solar lantern stays on 24/7

Solar lantern stays on 24/7

The “Solar Paper Latern” is made from 36 miniature solar panels with each connected up to an electroluminescent diode. The resulting light can remain on indefinitely, as long as the panels are near a spot of strong sun exposure. Solar Paper Lantern by Damien 0’Sullivan @ Saint Etienne Design Triennial

Electric RazEr

Charles has been messing about with scooters. This is his second crack at it with the more modestly named RazEr. At least some of the work has been done at Miters in Cambridge. The business end. The relevant power transmission implement – there is only 1 – is housed completely in the rear wheel. It […]

DIY: Old diskette ornaments

DIY: Old diskette ornaments

It seems like a lot of people still have a bunch of old diskettes lying around collecting dust. Why not make them into a geeky holiday ornament for your tree? It’s the perfect gift for your hacker friends. More about DIY: Old diskette ornaments [CraziestGadgets] In the Maker Shed: The Best of Instructables Volume I