Designed to convert the Sun light into electricity, solar cells are not a new thing. In the 19th century, scientists performed many experiments based on the photoelectric properties of different materials. Today, photoelectric panels are used not only to generate electricity in homes and offices, but also to power gadgets such as watches, clocks, calculators, garden lights, toys, sound systems and even coffee makers.
From roof tiles to the carpet, a variety of recycled materials are widely available in the construction industry today. In 2008, Lawrence Reaveley from the University of Utah developed a way of reducing landfill waste by blending plastic and cellulose residues to create building blocks and panels. In 2009, Brazilian researcher Marcio Buson created a innovative type of brick by recycling empty cement sacks and soil.
Petroleum is a not only a non-renewable material, but it also generated high levels of air pollution when gasoline and diesel are burned to move vehicles. Hydrogen is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. It produces electricity, which will power the vehicle engine, often much smaller than a gasoline-powered engine. Hydrogen is renewable and widely available in nature, and produces zero carbon emissions. Hydrogen-powered cars are commercially available in many countries.
Eben Bayer and Gavin McIntyre are the inventors of a biodegradable insulation material based on fungi and agricultural byproducts, such as buckwheat hulls and cotton burrs. Called Greensulate, the product consist of sheets and panels, designed for the building and construction industry. It can also replace the petroleum-based Styrofoam sheets used in commercial packaging or when shipping heavy items.