4 Unconventional Green Inventions

Written by: Katy Donovan

“Rethink, Reuse, and Recycle!” These words have been embedded in my mind since hearing them at yearly assemblies in elementary school. Throughout our lives we hear how critical it is for us to recycle and reuse the products that we use in our everyday lives. While the importance of recycling may be a new concept to some, there are many inventions and innovative technologies helping to preserve our natural resources and make positive impacts on the environment. You are likely aware of electric cars, solar panels, and eco-friendly light bulbs, but there are many unconventional inventions and technologies used around the world that you have probably never heard of. Someday, these inventions may even become a part of our everyday lives.

1. The White Goat

The White Goat, invented by Oriental, is a machine that transforms regular office paper into toilet paper, helping to save both money and trees. Here’s how it works: First, paper is placed into the machine. While inside, the paper goes through a quick process that involves shredding, dissolving into water, thinning, drying, and finally, spinning into toilet paper rolls.

For more information, photos and videos, visit: http://www.techeblog.com/index.php/tech-gadget/white-goat-machine-transforms-shredded-paper-into-toilet-paper

2. The Moss Carpet

Designer Nguyen La Chanh created The Moss Carpet, a bathmat made out of recycled latex foam and various types of moss. Since the moss flourishes in damp, humid environments, the bathroom is the perfect location. Long-live the steamy shower!

Find out more information here: http://inhabitat.com/moss-carpet-by-nguyen-la-chanh/

3. The Pencil Printer

The Pencil Printer comes from the mind of designer Hoyoung Lee. The printer uses the wood from pencil stubs to print documents, eliminating the need for ink cartridges. The printer even includes an “eraser” so the paper can be reused.

For more information, photos and videos, visit: http://www.ippinka.com/blog/pencil-printer/

4. The River Gym

The River Gym is a design that won third place in New York Magazine’s Create a Gym contest, held in 2005. Inventors Mitchell Joachim and Douglas Joachim came up with the idea of a floating gym that utilizes the energy given off by people exercising, propelling the floating device and allowing it to move and travel across New York’s waterways. This invention is sure to save the time and energy of busy commuters!

For more information and photos, visit: http://inhabitat.com/the-floating-human-powered-gym/

To see more of Mitchell Joachim’s designs visit: http://www.archinode.com/Arch9fab.html