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!

WattzOn – Personal energy audit

WattzOn – Personal energy audit

Slides (PDF) of the WattzOn presentation at the Web 2.0 Summit… MacArthur Fellow, Dr. Saul Griffith will demonstrate a new, free digital application that allows anyone to more broadly understand their real energy footprint. The rich online audit calculates personal energy consumption from flying, driving, powering a home, eating, shopping, working and even one’s share […]

Kill A Watt – Take apart

Kill A Watt – Take apart

Kill A Watt – Take apart @ SparkFun- Plug the Kill-a-watt into a standard 110V US outlet, then plug the device (like a TV, air-conditioner, computer, etc) you want to measure into the Kill-a-watt. The KAW will measure voltage, amps, watts, Hz, kWhr, and elapsed time (since plugged in). The unit requires no batteries (it’s […]

Stirling engine car

Stirling engine car

Dean Kamen is working on a Stirling engine car and it’s on the road… The same day that Ford and General Motors announced catastrophic third-quarter losses, Dean Kamen was showing off his new electric car. The prototype vehicle, a zippy two-seat hatchback designed with more than a passing resemblance to the Volkswagen Beetle, can go […]