INNOVATION
$8,800
That’s the cost of a “low-carbon, low-cost” house of the future. Designed to sit in low-income housing developments where the need for an
affordable housing solution
is strong, these houses made from tyres and recycled trash is a solution to the high need for housing. www.seed.org.za
LIGHTING OUTDOOR
UPCYCLE FLOWER LAMP
The Consol Solar Jar is literally bottled sunshine – created by fitting a solar panel and solar-powered LED lights onto the lid of a glass jar. When charged in direct sunlight for four to six hours it gives the same amount of light when activated.
Local designers find creative ways to make beautiful things from household goods. These Upcycle Flower Lamps use household olive oil and re-used jars. Handmade by community ceramics, they send out the message – use what you’ve got and do it with care. www.thebotanyproject.com
www.solarjar.co.za
FINDING NEW LIFE FOR SAILS
An exciting brand of recycled bags and accessories made from reclaimed sails is making waves. The Resails bags and gear are made from old discarded yacht sails and are about as cool as they come. The gear is both eco-conscious and edgy and the fashion conscious and sports enthusiasts are snapping it up alike. The brand is run by big wave surfer Mike Schiebach. “Love my jacket,” Tweeted UK style guru Beatrice Hurst after picking up a jacket on a trip. Mike says the idea was a simple one. “There is so much stuff like these old sails just lying around and headed for the dump. We started looking at ways of using what we love and what’s available and making it look cool.” www.resails.com
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