If you’re at all like me, summer may not be your favorite season. At least there’s not freezing temperatures combined with ice and snow, but here in the southern half the United States, there is heat and humidity. I’m not a fan of feeling sweaty and sticky and spending long periods of time in this type of oppressive heat can be miserable and exhausting. Fortunately, I have air conditioning, and I spend as much time indoors as possible.
It’s easy to forget that there are people living in hot climates all over the world without simple luxuries that I take for granted. Specifically, air conditioning and the comfort it provides.
In rural Bangladesh, summers are extremely hot, and many are living in small huts that do not have electricity, let alone air conditioning. During the oppressively hot summer months, temperatures inside one of these homes can reach upward of 115 degrees Fahrenheit. This is not just extremely uncomfortable but can certainly be dangerous. There are few solutions available to cool these homes, but a man named Grey Dhaka has devised a simple and innovative invention that provides some relief from the extreme temperatures.
His “Eco-Cooler” device is inexpensive and made from items that are easily accessible. Holes are made in a piece of cardboard. Plastic bottles, with the bottoms cut off, are then put in the holes. The air is cooled as it flows through the bottles. This device can cool a home up to 10 degrees without electricity.
Grey’s partner at Grameen Intel Social Business, Abdullah Al Mamun, explains the reason behind the Eco-Cooler’s creation: “Since most rural homes in Bangladesh are made of corrugated tin, the Eco-Cooler has the power to provide relief to millions of Bangladeshis. We sincerely hope this volunteer effort will make a difference in their lives.”
Take a look at this genius invention below and please like and share this post to spread awareness of this amazing invention!
