The best place on earth to get something old that’s as good as new, for money’s worth. eBay. Now we’ve probably used the website before and brought home a load of stuff from there. Well, the whole world logs in there from time to time and makes purchases. And so, they need a hell lot of packaging to deliver their products, right? That’s exactly why they’ve decided to turn their packaging eco-friendly, in the form of a shipping container that can easily be recycled. Basically, the stuff you order arrives in a box, that’s made out of 100% FSC-certified material, features water-based inks and requires minimal tape to close, which is then sent back to the company for recycling. eBay believe that using a single box for up to five deliveries saves up to 4,000 trees, 2.4 million gallons of water and energy to power up around 49 homes for a year. Amazing isn’t it? We think so too. Good going eBay!
03
2010
EBay’s boxing away to eco-consciousness and environment-friendliness
03
2010
Champagne bottles to shed weight to reduce carbon footprint
Those bulky champagne bottles you’ve been popping all along at parties will now undergo a weight loss. The bottle, originally designed by a Benedictine monk, Dom Pierre Perignon will have a makeover of sorts, and shed its weight around its shoulder, to cut out on carbon emissions. And how will this help? Transporting champagne bottles around the globe today leaves a carbon footprint of somewhere around 200,000 metric tones. Owing to its size and weight, the bottles cost more to transport and produce. So, its time they shed the weight. But if you’ve been wondering how slim will these get, you need not think too much, since the bottles will look just the same, just weigh a lot lighter.
Unlike the old champagne bottles that weighed 900 grams, the new ones way 835 grams. This should help cut down on around 8,000 metric tons of carbon every year. So your glass of sparkling gold bubbles will now not have created as much of an environmental impact as it used to before, when you’d unknowingly pop it open, ignorant of the carbon footprint.
03
2010
Hunter Fanaway Ceiling Fan made from recyclable materials is energy efficient
Innovation with a touch of green does tend to bring a wide smile across our faces. That’s just why we love the Hunter Fanaway Ceiling Fan. The fan is made of recyclable materials and is built sleek and sturdy. Its energy efficient too! This one also packs some pretty eye-catching technology, retractable blades. When switched off, the blades of the fan retract back into its body. The fan uses a WhisperWind motor that’s as quite as a sneaking cat. It produces a pretty awesome airflow too, with 4186 cubic feet per minute. If that’s not all, this ceiling fan is also integrated with energy-efficient, low-power-consuming lighting.
A ceiling fan like this will look just right in that living room of yours, increasing its aesthetic appeal and doing a bit of good to the environment too, with its energy efficient and eco-friendly features.
[Freshome]
03
2010
NASA to develop solar-powered electric rocket
We’ve seen them all go electric before, cars, bikes, buses and bicycles too. NASA has finally decided to work on an electric vehicle that will shoot through space now. The agency has currently set its mind on developing a prototype of a spacecraft that will be fitted with a solar array using an electric rocket to propel it forward. This one won’t show up in the skies anytime before 2014 though, and is designed to be an unmanned vehicle. The mission, labeled as the Solar Electric Propulsion mission, will have the spacecraft automatically maneuver and travel to a dead satellite and stop without running right through it. If all goes well, the spacecraft will then change course and make its way to an asteroid where it will use a bunch of tools in its study.
Solar power is finding more applications now than ever, with renewable energy finally being thought of as a fuel, efficient enough to power up space missions.
[Dvice]
03
2010
Adrian Smith in collaboration with Gordon Gill Architecture lay plans to reduce carbon foot-prints in Chicago City
If you have been on a diet, you would know how difficult it is to shed off all the weight you have acquired with ease. Multiply that manifolds, and that is what Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill Architecture have set their sights on as they bring the Chicago Central Area DeCarbonisation Plan underway. As per the goals of the plan, much over the past year a 25-member project team was busy developing a database depicting energy use, size, age, use, and estimated carbon footprint for over 550 buildings in the Loop. Once done, the team created a 3-D model based on the accumulated data to further the research and development process for the DeCarbonisation Plan.
With the help of energy engineering, architecture and urban design expertise, the plan hopes for 100% reduction in carbon emissions for all of these new and renovated buildings by the year 2030. In the first phase called as ‘Buildings’, investigation will be carried out on existing structures to increase energy efficiency. Other strategies include ‘Urban Matrix’ to expand existing amenities, ‘Smart Infrastructure’, to generate, relocate and effectively distribute energy, ‘Mobility’, an for better means of transport and connectivity; ‘Water’, for water conservation; ‘Waste’, the disposal and sanitation system; ‘Community Engagement’, for community service with a green background; and ‘Energy’, to examine the current and introduce new sources of energy.
03
2010
Harman AKG comes out with a Quincy Jones Signature Line of headphones
You can sell headphones to an audiophile with or without a starlet to endorse it. But some brands like to tie up to give the world limited edition signature line. And so Harman AKG tied up with Quincy Jones to come put with the Quincy Jones Signature Line of headphones. The line will see three models to be launched starting with “reference class” the Q 701 which is worn over-the-ear, followed by the Q 460 which are the lightweight headphones, and to finish with the Q 350 earbuds.
The Q 701 comes with ergonomically-shaped velvet cushions and removable 99-percent oxygen-free wires. The portable Q 460 on-ear headphones priced at $229.99 comes with a 3D-axis folding system. It is also compatible with the iPhone and features an in-line remote control system that controls the microphone with the play, pause, and skip functions. The Q 350 ear phone, which is also iPhone compatible, is priced at $149.99.
[Engadget]
03
2010
A half scale Porsche 365 for you to keep and your kid to drive
Time to add a legendary Porsche 356 scale model to your collection and up for grabs is an exactly half scale model of the classic car. The scale comes with a composite chassis composite body shell that can be driven around by kids above the age of 6! The seat and the pedal box can be adjusted to seat two kids comfortably, or a parent to assist the child.
The vehicle comes equipped with disk brakes, electric start, reverse gear, working lights and horn, ignition keys and a fitted car cover. You can opt for a gas powered vehicle in a variety of engine sizes starting at 50cc with automatic or manual transmission. You can pick from a range of colors for the body, and the interiors, with a leather interiors as well.
03
2010
A stunning supercar steel sculpture to be unveiled at 2010 MPH the Prestige & Performance Motor Show to be auctioned off soon after
It’s not that only the work of great sculptors that gets revered. Even stunning sculptures like this one of a kind supercar statue, which is all set to become a museum piece in the future! Crafted by RoboSteel, this beautiful piece, sculpted in recycled steel will get a royal unveiling at the 2010 MPH The Prestige & Performance Motor Show.
While the first design was submitted by art designer Toonrama, the second design drawing by Dave Murphy from Dublin Ink leans towards a more alien look. The supercar sculpture is all set to auctioned off at the end of the show to raise money for charity.
[Topspeed]
03
2010
Jean Paul Gaultier and La Perla team up to launch a collection of hand made lingerie
Undergarments are not just another essential piece of clothing for a woman it adds to more oomph and grace to her sensual side. And lingerie like Victoria’s secret has captured imagination of both men and women alike! And now to add to your fantasies, Jean Paul Gaultier is all set to launch a new collection of hand made lingerie in collaboration with La Perla.
While bra and panties are set to cost around $618; the more elaborate bustiers and corsets would come with a price tag of $1,236. The pair has also collaborated on a beachwear capsule collection which will be unveiled at the 2011 Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer wear.
03
2010
Leopard-Printed Fur Momma Bag from Dolce & Gabbana
If the Dior Fur Libertine Hobo failed to meet your furry fashion requirements, the Leopard-Printed Fur Momma Bag from Dolce & Gabbana might just satisfy your furry needs. The chic leather print fur creation is sure to turn you into a trendsetter. The Leopard-printed dyed pieced raccoon bag is leather trimmed on the top and features a golden and black leather top handle. A stylish silver charm with a golden trim flaunts the D&G logo. The interior boasts of a number of card, open and zip pockets. Complete with a black satin lining, a zip closure, this chic accessory is sure to make one furry fashion statement. Measuring 8 1/4″H x 13 1/4″W x 1″D in size, this bag even boasts of a removable shoulder strap. Priced at $3,800 it is available here.
03
2010
Discover Paris like a real princess in Cinderella’s carriage
Paris is known to be one of the most romantic cities in the world. However discovering the city and falling in love with it, is definitely going to cost you a great deal of dough. The city which is touted to be one of the most expensive in the world is now offering you a tour, a-la-Cinderella style. The unique idea of this fairytale tour was thought up by Philippe Delon, the owner of “Paris CALECHES”. Visitors who opt for this tour of the French capital will be driven around the city in a real version of Cinderella’s beautiful carriage. The horse driven carriage will take you to some of the most romantic destinations in Paris. The tour that lasts for four hours costs a cool 1,200 Euros ($1550)! Living up to its fairytale status, the coach boasts of the classic pumpkin shape and is driven by a great white horse.
A trip in this romantic city aboard this beautiful coach is sure to make every girl feel like a princess.
03
2010
Tickets for ZERO G Experience with James Cameron for auction on eBay
The Zero G Experience is one experience that anybody who can afford it should not miss. Making this experience even more memorable for interested flyers is James Cameroon who has agreed to participate as the honored guest aboard an ZERO-G Experience which will take off from Van Nuys Airport (VNY) in Los Angeles, California on Saturday, October 9, 2010. The Avatar director/producer has agreed to fly in the Zero G flight to help raise funds for the X PRIZE Foundation. Only three seats are remain empty and are actually being auctioned on eBay. The lucky winning bidders will not only get to enjoy this flight alongside the famed director but also take back a photo with him as well as a special Avatar gift bag from Twentieth Century Fox. The current bid for a pair of seats has reached $7877.
The X PRIZE Foundation is an educational nonprofit prize institute whose mission is to create radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity. The other seats aboard this flight have been purchased by X PRIZE Board Members and special guests.The weightless flight will take place aboard G-FORCE ONE, a specially modified, FAA-approved, Boeing 727-200 aircraft and will allow flyers to experience what it’s like to be in zero gravity. The auction began on 31st August and is open till 10th September.
Since only seven days remain to make your bid this amount is expected to rise, so you had better hurry and make your offer if you wish to be part of this memorable flight. To place your bid and for more information, click here.
[Yahoo]
03
2010
J.K. Rowling donates $15.4 million to set up a Multiple Sclerosis research clinic
World renowned bestselling author, J.K. Rowling has donated part of her earning to benefit a Multiple Sclerosis charity. The author of the famed, Harry Potter series of books has donated £10 million ($15.4 million) to set up a research clinic in her mother’s name. Reportedly, the Rowling’s mother, Anne succumbed to complication resulting from MS at the age of 45. This personal experience as well as her desire to give back something to the city of Edinburgh prompted Rowling to start this research center. Besides conducting research and trying to unravel the mysteries of MS, the Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic at Edinburgh University will also focus on other degenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and Motor Neurone Disease. This is the biggest donation given by the author till date and also the largest ever to be received by the university.
The clinic will be located in a purpose-built facility where academics will work intimately with researchers and study neurodegenerative disorders at the university, as well as train a “new generation of researchers”.
Rowling who just turned 45, the age at which her mother died said, “I cannot think of anything more important, or of more lasting value, than to help the university attract world-class minds in the field of neuroregeneration, to build on its long and illustrious history of medical research and, ultimately, to seek a cure for a very Scottish disease.
Just last year she stood down from a patron for the MS Society Scotland charity citing the split by internal rows as her main reason to step down. Rowling now believes that the clinic is more exciting, more innovate and more likely to unravel the mysteries of MS than any other project she had been asked to fund.
03
2010
Dolce & Gabbana to release limited edition Naomi Campbell T-Shirt collection
Super model Naomi Campbell has completed 25 amazing years in the fashion industry. To mark this silver jubilee moment in her career, the fashion duo Dolce & Gabbana are releasing a limited edition t-shirt collection and also hosting a grand launch event. The T-shirt collection comprises of 14 different designs, each featuring an iconic photograph of the supermodel herself. The iconic photos have been taken by some of the most well known fashion photographers in the world including Patrick Demarchelier, Steven Klein, David LaChapelle, Mario Testino, Ellen von Unwerth, Bruce Weber, Steven Meisel, Herb Ritts and Peter Lindbergh. What is more, all proceeds from the sale of these limited edition shirts will benefit Campbell’s Fashion for Relief charity, which raises funds in the fashion world in times and places of need.
The exclusive launch party will be held by D&G on September 10th in New York City. The shirts will also go on sale on the very same day on the various D&G boutiques in New York City.
Following NYC, the shirts will be available in London, Milan Paris, Moscow, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai throughout the fall. Designers D&G describe Campbell as “An icon rather than a model,” and consider themselves lucky to have known the person behind the image.
[Luxist]
02
2010
Nanotech used in filter material helps filter water 80,000 times faster
Water filters today tend to keep you anxiously waiting while they get on with their job, to provide you with clean germ-free water. Give a few years in the future, and you just won’t have to wait so long for a sparkling clean glass of water to quench your thirst. A new nano-material was developed recently that purifies water 80,000 times faster than purifiers today, killing 98% bacteria. Water filters in the future will use cotton dipped in nano-sized silver wires and copper tubes. The filter was developed by researchers at the Stanford University which conducts a charge of electricity used to block bacterial flow. If the bacteria choose to remain stubborn and cling on to the filter, the silver in it kills them off. For now, researchers are figuring out ways to develop these filters using lighter materials and at cheaper costs.
We wish them all the luck they need into making this glass of crystal clear water into reality.
02
2010
Fido’s a place for some canine fun, is sustainable and eco-friendly
Well, if you live in Portland and plan to take your dog for a walk, rest assured, the experience is bound to be a whole lot different. Fido’s Indoor Dog Park, located in Southeast Portland, an industrial area, offers a place to take your canine friend for a walk, complete with artificial grass. The place is almost one-third of a football field, around 13,000 square feet. It’s more of a resort for canines, and includes a self-dog-wash area, private meeting rooms for owners, a coffee shop, wireless Internet access, a pool for dogs, and eight dens for canines who wish to stay there for a night. And yes, this one makes an effort to be sustainable too, with products in the retail store sourced locally, nontoxic paints used, ozonated water in pools with 98% less chemicals, grass made of recycled materials and natural cleaners to clean up urine, Biozyme. The poop is collected in biodegradable bags and plans to use the waste for compost are currently under the hammer.
For a day, without the pool, you pay just $10 to give your doggie a load of fun, while you pay $275 for an entire month. Fido’s sure seems to be the place your doggie would have on his or her wish list!
02
2010
Super capacitors could replace batteries in the future for quicker charges
Electronic devices like cell phones and laptop computers in the future could go a bit lighter and work for hours longer than the one’s we used today, thanks to a super capacitor developed by a team of scientists recently. These are cheap enough and powerful to be used commercially. Also, the capacitor charges in as little as a few seconds and could keep our phones and laptops powered on for days together. Capacitors store energy too, though unlike batteries, that store energy chemically, these store an electrical charge between two conductive plates separated by an electrical insulator. Batteries on the other hand undergo a slow process of converting chemical energy into electricity and last long, though take ages to charge up. Capacitors use no chemical conversion, which is why they charge up a lot quicker and last longer too. Plus, they weigh much less than batteries.
They do not however store as much energy as batteries, which is why their uses today are very limited. However, super capacitors of the future with a few technological breakthroughs will store a lot more energy than batteries and slowly replace them.
02
2010
The three-wheeled foldable X-Frame powered by electricity, urban transport for the future
We’ve come across a few modes of transport that fold up and are powered by electricity before, like the CYOOO bike. Foldable options usually are limited to two-wheelers, though this time, Japan’s Good Design Expo 2010 saw a three-wheeler, foldable and powered by electricity. The contraption, known as the X-Frame Folding Vehicle was designed by the researches at the Nagoya Institute of Technology. This vehicle is adapts to its speed, the terrain and the number of passengers to quickly change its seat shape whenever required. To store, the X-Frame folds up vertically. The uniquely designed rear wheel of the X-Frame stores its battery which can be replaced. So you don’t really need to wait for this one to charge up fully. Just switch a drained out battery for a fully charged on!
If sold in markets, a vehicle like this would work just great in urban areas, where parking space is as rare as a needle in a haystack and the air’s forever polluted thanks to our gasoline guzzling cars.
[Dvice]
02
2010
The Kona Residence in Hawaii, powered by the sun and watered by the rain
We sure love residence spaces that are as green as possible, ones like the Kona Residence in Hawaii that the guys at Belzberg Architects recently developed. The residency integrates nature and architecture, with a person residing there being given a closer-to-nature experience like never before. The area is divided into pods, each with its own unique view and build-type. And every one of them has a breathtaking view, with the residence situated between cooled lava flows, volcanic mountain ranges and ocean horizons. The residence basically has each of its pods connected to a central axis. The pods include two sleeping pods, a media pod, a master suite and the main living space. All this is powered up by a load of solar panel arrays on the roof. Water supply is from a rainwater collection system that channels the water into drywells. To build the residence, reclaimed teak timber from older barns and train tracks was used for the exterior. The entry pavilion is inspired by basket weaving and reminds one of the presentation traditions of a basket on arrival in Hawaii.
Hawaii undeniably is a beautiful place to live in, and a home like this in paradise makes it a lot better!
02
2010
Philadelphia subway cars to hook on to a regenerative braking system for extra power
Subway cars on the Philadelphia subway will do a lot more than just give you those dreadful jerks every time they brake. The energy generated from breaking of these subway cars will now be stored in a high capacity battery, which will be stored and used. The system will be put into place by Viridity Energy which was awarded a grant of a whopping $900,000 by the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority. The battery will be located near the Market-Frankford Line and the energy stored will be used to power up the trains leaving the station. Surplus will be sold back to the grid for a price. The battery will have a capacity of 1 megawatt and 1.5MW and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA hopes to save up on at least $500,000 a year.
The energy generated can be sold by SEPTA to the grid for energy bursts at peak times, which will bring in a load of funds too. Who knew a subway car slowing down could do so much!
[Cnet]