In honor of Earth Day 2012, (yes, it’s almost Earth Day, for those of you still working on your taxes and not paying much attention to anything else around you right now) which will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22nd this year, I wanted to share this very green, very earth-friendly concept for a park bench. This amazing design not only addresses the idea of getting out and enjoying nature (in the park where the bench is), but providing solar power for the gadgets that some of us don’t want to leave home without – like those we looked at last time in the cool camping stuff post!
According to designer Owen Song:
The main purpose of a bench is seating. But, modern people do something more on the bench. Waiting for somebody would be the one of new functions. I design a bench that frees itself from tradition. It is a new approach of thinking what a bench is. While playing the traditional role, this bench becomes a WIFI hot-spot and night-lighting with the thin-film solar battery. Moreover, it is made out of aluminum and recycled plastic regard of eco-issue.
Designed to be made from recycled aluminum and plastic (more kudos for reusing!), this very cool energy-efficient piece of outdoor furniture would have solar panels installed to generate energy to power an embedded wi-fi unit, lights for evening use, and would cost an estimated $300 per bench. Not sure the parks in my neighborhood would spring for this, but I can see this becoming popular in more urban areas where people could enjoy the fresh air and check their email!
Designer Owen also states:
It is designed by manufacturing possibility and cost, because of its simple structure. Moreover, the thin-film solar battery can gather sunlight and generate electricity regardless of the weather. Snowing or raining is not really matter to this. Also, the size of this bench is similar to the existing benches. This bench can be installed on existing facilities or new places.
I really love the thought that went into this concept, and think it’s something that could be integrated into not only city parks, but urban areas as well with great success! And since this year’s Earth Day goal is to Mobilize the Earth, to demand that we protect our natural resources and “stand united for a sustainable future and call upon individuals, organizations, and governments to do their part” – I’d love to hear what ideas you have to support this event and further the goal that we should all be participating in…
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