2.2 Sustainability¶
Sustainable Practice and Biomaterials / Bring Makerculture into Schools¶
Sustainable Practices¶
Circular Economy¶
The Distributive Design Makerclass
Biolab at Aalto University¶
Ena Naito is leading a Makers Studio for Bio Design at Aalto where students can explore, discover and create things made out of biomaterials.
Materials above include mycelium (fungi root structure), agar and kombucha scopy, all pictured above.
Spirulina is also used for UV printing, creating different patterns on paper and it can conduct electricity.
More examples of these materials including coffee grounds with alginate and gelatin are pictured here.
These items can serve as insulation, noise reduction, furniture, fabrics, etc.
The Project¶
Make something out of biomaterials
Reflection¶
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Yes, I have taught many lessons focused on sustainable practices. Some include recycling, decorating reusable bags and using towels to dry hands instead of paper.
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I would like to involve students in the process of identifying the problem. Creating a design culture classroom would be empowering for the students and supportive of their ideas.
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Using and reusing scraps and materials that seem like waste to create usable objects could support sustainable practices. Aside from making things out of biomaterials one could also digitally fabricate things to support an envirmonemnt that reduces waste.
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I think the school is ready to hear about the reasons why these sustainable practices are desireable and the outcome it can have on the community. I also think that it is challenging to change habits. Therefore, much research and examples of what other schools are doing would have to be provided to all stakeholders in order to encourage change. Data and examples will elevate buy in and that is what is necessary for success. Additionally, invovling teachers, stakeholders and the children in solving this problem creates a problem based learning opportunity and builds community.