Design
University students transform workouts into power with energy-generating gym equipment
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Imagine getting on the treadmill and knowing that every stride you take burns calories and helps keep the lights on. At Brown University, this is exactly what is happening. The Nelson Fitness Center has transformed exercise into a green energy initiative, Read More...
Namibia's sustainable solution to its housing crisis? Mushroom waste and weedsÂ
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Namibia is experiencing a serious housing crisis, with roughly 90 percent of households unable to purchase a home. However, an innovative project, MycoHab, is offering a sustainable and promising solution by converting invasive bush and mushroom waste into Read More...
3D printing lunar LEGO bricks to test out building on the moon
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM For decades, scientists and space enthusiasts have been fascinated by the idea of building permanent structures on the Moon. Addressing the unique obstacles of building in space has prompted academics to create novel solutions. One such achievement combines Read More...
How greenhouse-grown cotton can transform the denim industry
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The fashion industry has long struggled to source cotton in a sustainable way. While Patagonia, Citizens of Humanity, and Christy Dawn have embraced regenerative agriculture, Dutch denim company G-Star Raw is looking into a new alternative: greenhouse-grown Read More...
The rainbow flag, an evolving symbol of LGBTQIA+ pride
During Pride Month, the rainbow flag, which represents LGBTQIA+ pride and solidarity, can be seen hung on homes, businesses, and bumpers. It's more than simply a brilliant show; it represents safe spaces and constant support for the LGBTQIA+ community. The origins of the rainbow flag On June 25, Read More...
How switching out timber for hemp can revamp sustainable low-carbon constructionÂ
In the search for sustainable building materials, hemp appears as a strong candidate, providing numerous environmental benefits. Similar to timber, hemp is a biogenic material, cultivated from plants. What distinguishes hemp is its amazing growth rate, which can reach up to four meters in four Read More...
New smartphone game FathomVerse reveals the ocean's hidden depths
Prepare to dive into the depths of the ocean with FathomVerse, a groundbreaking smartphone game that blurs the barriers between gaming and scientific inquiry. FathomVerse, which was released on May 1st and is accessible on the App Store and Google Play, provides users with a unique opportunity to Read More...
Making windows bird-friendly: a crash course on protecting our feathered friends
In 1990, Michael Mesure was on the way to a wildlife rehabilitation center. Among his passengers was a common yellowthroat, a colorful warbler that had collided with a window. Mesure's heart fell as he saw the tiny bird struggle for survival. Despite the pain, an unexpected moment of beauty Read More...
Revolutionary window film reduces heat and energy consumption
What's a room without windows? Windows are undoubtedly an important feature in our homes, offices, cars, and public spaces. They provide views and natural light, but they also contribute to heat input, which increases energy usage for cooling, a problem in an era of rising temperatures. When Read More...
Self-sustaining batteries powered by the body's oxygen
Imagine a world in which medical implants may run perpetually without the need for battery refills. This futuristic potential could soon become a reality owing to a remarkable invention by a team of Chinese scientists. Introducing the concept of the self-sustaining battery The researchers Read More...