When discussing insperiences on (the
trend of bringing professional grade products and services into the domestic
domain), one thinks of plush home cinemas and chef-worthy kitchens. An indoor
recycling plant doesn't immediately spring to mind. But that could change with
the arrival of the Ecopod.
Created in partnership with BMW
DesignWorksUSA, Ecopod's E1 Series is a household recycling center that aims
to change the way consumers take out their trash. The appliance houses a
compactor, and provides an efficient way to crush, store and redeem recyclable
beverage containers, specifically plastic bottles and aluminium cans.
Consumers throw their bottle or can in the appropriate slot, step on a foot
pedal, and enjoy the satisfying sound of compaction. The compacted container
falls into an internal bin, which can be removed for redemption or curbside
disposal. Each pod has storage capacity for approximately 50 crushed containers,
while an upper compartment has additional room for glass bottles, newspapers and
other recyclable materials. Everything neatly stored away and ready to moved to
the next step in the recycling chain.
Anything that makes it easier for consumers to be green is worth partnering
with. Ecopod will be available for the 2006 holiday season; if you're in
household goods, it's probably time to start placing your orders. (The system
will also be featured in Williams-Sonoma's January 2007
catalogue.) And if you're based outside the US: snap up local distribution
rights.
From: http://www.springwise.com
SEEN IN OPRAH's O MAGAZINE, October 2007
