A couple of days ago I met with the Nike Better World team (http://www.nikebetterworld.com/) and learned that they will soon be releasing over ten years of materials research in an index titled the "Considered Design Index". Soon after they will be able to make all of their new patents public, including cardboard boxes using 35% less cardboard than the previous box. For them, this ongoing work is done to sustain their industry. They realize that their industry will only be profitable if they take large steps towards making business sustainable on every level: considering air quality, peoples' quality of life, water quality and abundance, waste and natural resources. http://tinyurl.com/7b9vehn They acknowledge they still have a lot of work to do in this area.
A two-day presentation at Eyebeam Art + Technology Center allowing an inside look at current research and in-progress work. Open Studios is a chance to meet the amazing artists and creative technologists that make Eyebeam an exciting creative incubator of new ideas, new art, and new technology: Think, Make, Share.
FELLOWSFran IlichMark ShepardMary MattinglyNova JiangTaeyoon ChoiAaron Meyers
The Caloris Basin is a new technique for concentrating sunlight to useful temperatures. Presently the energy is used for cooking, and many more uses are possible. It is based on an excavated hemisphere in the ground, and so is significantly less expensive to produce than standard troughs and dishes. Materials research was done at eyebeam, and prototypes are being tested all over North America. Workshops have been held with Sweatshop in Tijuana, Mexico and in Coatzacoalcos, Mexico, with more planned internationally. BjornQorn is a New York based food company that is testing the technology on a commercial scale, to make popcorn.