In urban scenario we have always taken electricity for granted.With a push of a button we use it at our will. We are all connected to the grid and power flows into our homes. Unfortunately there are billions around the world in rural area who are less unfortunate. Staggering number of close to 2 billion people are devoid of basic electricity in their homes. One of the major reasons is poverty. These destitute people in developing countries are living hand to mouth and certainly cannot afford electricity in their homes.
The rural population uses kerosene lamps by night to light their homes. Sadly these kerosene lamps have ill effects on human health. Exposure to kerosene fumes cause respiratory disorder. The most common health effect associated with chronic kerosene exposure is dermatitis. The exposure to kerosene fumes have also caused human casualties.
A study in 2013 explained that the governments around the world are focused on carbon emissions. They have not realised that almost one-third of world is dependent on kerosene lamps that emit black fumes which are highly toxic in nature and have a major impact on climate change. The incomplete combustion of the liquid lamp fuel often yields black carbon that absorbs light, there by heating the atmosphere.
Following is an inspiring speech by UK based product designer tackling the issues mentioned above.
GRAVITY LIGHT - lighting a billion lives
In today's world entrepreneurs always strive to produce commodities or items for the rich. Thankfully people like Jim Reeves and his team have managed to come up with a product designed for the poor. The product meets the triple bottom line of social, environmental and financial comfort. This product needs to be mass produced not only for rural areas in developing world but also for urban scenario.
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