In a recent article published on Inhabitat.com, the author, David Olson asks the question, “Can technology save the world?” His answer, “No, not by itself.” Olson goes on to explain that technology cannot make the world and our environment better, rather, it is our responsibilities as humans to implement current and new technologies in proper, more beneficial ways.

Olson later explains that this argument is a somewhat dangerous one because the decision-makers and influencers in this field are often persuaded by profits and votes, which make for clouded judgments. However, Olson does provides his own four-point list, that if attacked can help our environment tremendously. He labels them “World-Saving Technologies”. They are are follows:

ENERGY NEEDS AND CLIMATE CHANGE
The development and utilization of sustainable energy sources, either through controlled fusion reactions, or improved solar, wind, tidal, and geothermal technologies.

AGRICULTURE
Technologies to increase productivity, while at the same time limit by-products and the dependency on pesticides and other toxins.

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AND WELL-BEING
Cracking down on those who commit crimes against the earth and promote healthier food supplies and medical care for those in need.

WASTE MANAGEMENT
Minimize our waste while finding better alternatives to current waste disposal techniques.

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The Norwegian practice, MAD arkitekter, was recently asked to develop a unique city space in the heart of Bjorvika, a hustling and bustling city in Norway.

The space is 10 x 90 meters in area and sits at the base of a large building which shades it from all exposure. But what makes this piece of real estate so special, is that it must successfully host 200 parked bicycles every day of the week.

The solution? Dozens of stainless steel artistic bike stands strategically placed throughout the space, replicating the tour de bjorvika, the region’s popular bike race. The bike stands emit white lights from the front handle bars and red lights from behind the seats, which help accent the direction of the race.

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Tucked away in the Charente region of the French countryside stands The Domaine de Boisbuchet, a beautiful country estate from the 15th century. And you wouldn’t know by looking at it, but this elegant abode hosts internationally successful summer workshops for artistic visionaries, and unconventional thinkers.

One of the most important curriculums is the Liquid Fusion workshop, which teaches the participants all about the world of glass with a focus on the idea of “glass as a liquid”. Paul Haigh is a British designer and architect and leads the workshop. He teaches a variety glassforming techniques such as fusing, slumping, off-hand blowing, hand pressing, and cold glass cutting and forming.

The summer workshops have been going on for 20 years, and over this time, they have continued to expand not only their following, but their class offering as well.

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Climate change affects people and animals worldwide, and it isn’t an isolated problem, rather one that needs to be addressed by all of us. As part of the observance for Earth Day, Earth Day Network wants you to submit your own photos and stories explaining how climate change has impacted you personally, or what you are doing to be part of the solution. Jump over to EarthDay.org to be involved in this eye-opening initiative.

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Made up of minimal components, these low-cost housing units provide solutions to Vietnam’s numerous rural housing problems. These units are designed by H&P Architects, and will be implemented in areas of Vietnam that experience extreme temperatures and yearly floods.

Because of their construction, these bamboo structures are able to float in flood situations while still staying anchored to their specific location. They are also extremely ventilated, which helps combat the high temperatures.

And with a $2,000 price tag, these homes are affordable for low-income families and have enough space for up to six people.

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