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!
Jim writes – “This project involves restoration of a rather rare breed of machine. Very few steam-powered motorcycles are known with the majority of historic “steamcycles” residing in museums (e.g., the “Field” steam motorcycle). There has been very little commercial exploitation of applying steam power to two-wheeled vehicles, so most “steamcycles” that come to light […]
The first flight…was steam powered! – “When the Wright brothers telegraphed home after Kitty Hawk, the only bit of their telegram which was commented on by the local press was “Wright brothers home for Christmas”. Why wouldn’t the press be carrying “Wright brothers first to fly” banners if they had just made history? The answer […]
Ray Hooley’s Ruston-Hornsby engine pages have the history and photos of many of the Ruston-Hornsby engines/machines including this “chain tractor” – ” The World’s first fully-tracked vehicle – 1905 Hornsby chain tractor: 20hp Hornsby-Akroyd engine, weighing c. 10 tons crossing a 1.4metre wide water-filled ditch. Meanwhile, they achieved speeds of 25mph (40km/h) with more advanced […]
Here’s a good bike light holder/connector for messenger bags from Fungus Amungus in the MAKE Instructables group, he writes – “Securely attach a spare bike light to your messenger bag and give yourself some extra carrying room if you’re really hauling something huge. With snaps that fit with the snaps already on my backpack I […]
Jeez, these Schwinn electric bikes are pretty cool looking, I’m not sure I’d get one, but ebikes are getting pretty fancy… – Pictured here, the 2007 Speedster, here are some of the specs… Moto-inspired aluminum Cruiser frame Integrated tank carries Schwinn Protanium battery Three-speed drivetrain enhances riding experience. Triple clamp suspension fork for a smooth […]
Here you go, a “rubber band” powered car from How To Build It 1932 – “Using strips cut from old inner tubes as motive power, the Flivver-car described in this article by Mr. Cole can easily be built by any boy and will be an endless source of fun. Here is something which will gladden […]
Here are a couple places I’d consider stops on a Maker-vacation… The first is the Gujarat Province on the Gulf of Cambay, India – this is where cruise ships go after they outlive their usefulness… [via] – Link & Google map. Next up, The Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Center – Link & Google Map. Got […]
