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bronx-cuny-india-study-abroad · 5 years

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Summary of Accomplishments

We installed a Davis Vantage Pro2 Plus solar powered/wireless weather station at the Govardhan Ecovillage in Wada, Maharashtra, India. The data is sent immediately to the WeatherLink (www.weatherlink.com) web site for all all to 👀/utilize. The region gets heavy monsoon rains and high temperatures in the winter periods with no prior means to quantify the various weather parameters. The weather station will increase weather coverage and weather prediction in the region.

We used our NOAA-CREST/BCC/Townsville backpack weather stations to monitor temp, humidity, carbon dioxide and UV radiation on a micro-scale at GEV, Mumbai and New Delhi. The analysis of the data is continuing and will be will be published in various forums and could help in designing a more sustainable Mumbai, New Delhi and GEV.

Built low cost sensors to measure temperature, humidity and potentially carbon dioxide and had the data sent automatically to the internet through wifi connectivity on the sensor - Mr Greg Bruce from Townsville, Australia ran this workshop.

We participated in a GEV led Sustainable Cities workshop led by Mr Nimai Lila of the Govardhan Ecovillage. Students walked away with a great appreciation for all required components in a sustainable city and the personal ways they could contribute to its sustainability and resilience.

We participated in Collective Social Learning (CSL) Workshops run by Mr Greg Bruce, principal Sustainability for Townsville, Australia on how to make 🗽 a more sustainable and resilient city. Students are now able to help run these workshops in 🗽 and elsewhere. Nirmela Govinda will be helping Mr Bruce to conduct one such CSL Workshop in the Fall at LaGuardia Community College/CUNY.

Presented on Sustainable, Resilient and Solar Cities to graduate and undergraduate engineering students and faculty at the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai (Greg Bruce).

Presented on Sustainability Focused Study Abroad to graduate/undergraduate engineering students and faculty at the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai (Neal Philip).

Students collected and analyzed 💧 sample from Lake Powai using equipment we brought from CUNY in the Environmental Science lab at the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai campus. They worked collaboratively with doctoral students from IIT to accomplish this task. Samples were found to have low pH, and to contain high level of ions (i,e,, high conductivity).

Participated in a sustainable farming workshop run by Diego of the Govardhan Ecovillage and each of our students planted a 🌴 on the Ecovillage compound.

Participated in an Insect Repellent manufacturing workshop led by Iris of the Govardhan Ecovillage. Students had a chance to make insect repellents in a completely eco friendly manner using natural products. Students were able to bottle the product and take it back to 🗽.

Students participated in a low Impact Lifestyle Workshop led by Diego of the Govardhan Ecovillage and each of them committed to live in a fashion that minimally impacts the environment. Several students and faculty were so inspired by Diego and left many of the their possession they brought on the trip for use by others or re purposing.

Established positive and meaningful connections with the children of the Gurukul Orphanage on the Govardhan Ecovillage compound.

Paid for and served the 68 students and the staff in the Gurukul Orphanage a special dinner meal on August 8.

Purchased umbrellas for all 68 students in the Gurukul Orphanage. An ☂️ was identified as one of the most pressing needs by staff of the orphanage since during the monsoon it rains incessantly. While we there, at times the rains fell at the rate of 4in/hr or higher and in one 24 hour period our weather station recorded 18 inches of rainfall.

Donated two 🚁 drones to the Gurukul Orphanage.

Received a Certificate of Appreciation for assisting Helpage India non-profit run a mobile clinic in downtown Mumbai for elderly former civil servants in who are in need of medical and other services.

Donated 25,000 India Rupees to Helpage India non-profit organization to help purchase medicine for elderly civil servants in Mumbai, India.

We had a meeting with Mr Vinod Tawde, the powerful Maharashtra Minister for Education, Culture and four other Portfolios to discuss on our activities in India including the weather station donation/installation and on ways CUNY could further collaborate with Maharashtra. Also discussed bringing a group of 20 Indian students to 🗽 for one week in April 2020 to learn on sustainability initiatives in CUNY and 🗽.

Visited an ISKCON run meal preparation facility to observe and assist in operations. The facility prepares mid-day meals for 27,000 per day.

Visited a local elementary school facility that is served by the ISKCON meal preparation facility and helped served meals to the students at lunchtime. We also donated pencils/eraser and pens to 4 class rooms of students in the school and had very positive interactions with them. The entire school took a group photo with us.

Visited and interacted with an award winning local farmer to understand how he diversified his crop from just 🍚 and how he also increased his crop yields.

Hiked up to the one of the summits in the Western Ghats plateau (1500 ft) and collected rock samples for use in 🌍 Science classes in CUNY. Professor Paramita Sen had provided the students with a short lecture on the Geological History of the Western Ghats before the ascent.

Visited the Dharavi neighborhood in Mumbai to connect with the youth. They were very bright and articulate and asked many probing questions about our backpack weather stations and collecting of micro-scale climate/pollution data. Several of them mentioned Carbon Dioxide gas.

Visited the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonder of the 🌍, in Agra, India. Students/faculty walked away with the sense that this was one of the most amazing experiences of their lives.

#CUNY #Bronxcc #Govardhan #Townsville #LaGuardia #York-CUNY

#Medgar-CUNY #studyabroad #NYC #GEV

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ghostlybouquetballoonstuff-blog1 · 7 years

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Cancun Vacation Brochures

As Bishops and Promulgators of the Causes of Beatification and Canonization of the Martyrs, shared the Glorious Resurrection of our Church by means of their prepared deaths, our hearts felt as if they would burst. For those who want to experience the wine in Ensenada with a comparatively smaller crowd, you may also go to Bodegas De Santo Tomas. One of the crucial breathtaking must be Nationwide Parks of the West, a ten-day luxury pleasure journey that starts its south-to-north leg in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This time we enjoyed a sight-seeing journey by bus to an space exterior the city and visited the film site for Predator, had a wonderful lunch at a restaurant within the hills, and visited a Tequila factory, an image of which is in my bio. You've Mexico City, with superb examples of architecture just like the old buildings in the Historic Center and the outdated world model of Basilica of Guadalupe. The city is totally stunning, situated on the coast with loads of seashore and solar to go round. When planning your vacation to Aruba, it's also crucial to note that effective January eight, 2007, the U.S. Authorities will require passports for all air and sea travel to and/or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda and The Bahamas. The inns is probably not the most effective known, however sometimes they are. Cling about a couple of nights in some windmill hotel of the Solvang a Danish-themed town, and thereafter drive north to the Napa Valley and Sonoma countryside which facilities a whole bunch of wineries. For those who have been sensitized to environmental issues or who have been exposed to tenting and the outside, the family can spend a few days in a country mountain setting in the Sierra Norte... climbing, biking, horseback using, and studying about how explicit industries within the state are making inroads when it comes to environmentally pleasant manufacturing. Foreigners are so rare here, that the youngsters at the river will in all probability stare and level in wonder at any outsiders who present up. It's important to arrange a tour with one of many native villagers to get here. It's a good idea to take out trip cancellation insurance. When you're done with the waters, you'll be able to then proceed to land-primarily based adventures, like mountain climbing, cave painting tours, golf, and even mountain biking. There are a whole bunch, each promoting tours to the same locations. For those who would decide to avoid large crowds, chances are you'll want to interpret scheduling your seaside vacation at a beach resort. Get a FREE REPORT that can assist you choose and plan your dream cruise by going to -/sign_up.html This text was written by Mandy Karlik who as soon as had a Caribbean cruise modifications its route owing to weather issues. There are hospitals right here providing the full complement of providers for medical travel, and the town options among the greatest-geared up hospitals in the area. Many of those agents and businesses have traveled to Mexico themselves - all of the whereas enjoying the motels, points of interest, and different luxuries provided on this nation. This new requirement will also have an effect on certain international nationals who presently aren't required to current a passport to journey to the United States. Guests must avoid political demonstrations and similar actions that is perhaps considered as political by the Mexican authorities. Guadalajara, which is second largest place to travel to in Mexico, is a largely economical and political metropolis. If we journey to the North end of the nation we discover a choice for red meats. The location consists of two giant pools fed by pure effervescent springs, in a spectacular mountain setting with a petrified mineral "waterfall." They are protected for kids, and large and deep enough to satisfy the aquatic yearnings of any grownup. Different explanation why Cancun attracts so many tourists embody its hotel, purchasing and restaurant strip; the inexpensive bus transportation system; loads of things to do; and handy entry to and from U.S. airports. An excellent service won't only arrange the therapy, but can also organize all journey plans, meet you at the airport, and act as your liaison when you are being treated. 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At present the Queen Mary 2 accommodates 2,620 passengers and crosses the Atlantic from Southampton to Florida or New York in six days, whilst the Freedom of the Seas (Ultra-Voyager) is registered within the Bahamas and sails seven day cruises to the Caribbean from Miami and again via Mexico, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Haiti. Encompassing some 76,300 sq. miles (197,600 square km), the peninsula consists of the Mexican states of Campeche, Yucatán and the well-known Quintana Roo. Avail of the perfect offers supplied by many flights to Mexico and see for yourself. The Summer time months of June and July are slow enough that you may haggle a pretty whole lot for an extended stay of some days to a couple of weeks or so. Prices will sky-rocket in the course of the peak Winter season. Mexico Metropolis's center consists of Centro Historico, the town's historic heart; Chapultepec, the first vacationer destination; Zona Rosa, the leisure and business district; and Condesa and Roma, the purchasing facilities and locations of many eating establishments. Discover out as a lot as you can about every property and get to know the people renting the property. Aside from providing excellent swimming and water sports activities, there are social gathering cruises, pirate-ship dinner cruises and romantic sundown dinner cruises all on the Caribbean Sea right here in Mexico. Escorts Coronary heart Institute and Analysis Heart, in Delhi, India, is one other common medical tourist destination. Take some time off your work if you want to seize some low-cost trip deals. By particular effects and an over-the-top tour information, this little forty five-minute adventure goals to put a bit good-natured fright into guests. Stay on the beachfront condos of Camino Real Zaashila Resort Resort-Huatulco is going to be a great expertise and on the similar time you possibly can deal with your loved ones and mates for a trip with out spending a fortune. If you wish to cruise alone, you definitely are free to take action, but you will find yourself paying an upcharge to get your stateroom. Actually, China has turn out to be a preferred place for American investments, yet Mexico has that closeness hooked up to it. In other phrases, Mexico is correct on our doorstep. Skilled ATV tour guides not solely know where to look in the jungle for thrilling adventures, however they also know how to keep you safe. For historical attractions and structure, visit Plaza de la Constitucion, dwelling of many historical buildings, together with Metropolis Corridor and the Cathedral; the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, residence of many buildings with types of structure belonging to a few distinct eras; and Basilica de Guadalupe, the Mexican basilica that guards Our Girl of Guadalupe. The period of Nezahualcoyotl's rule came to be known as the Golden age of Texcoco. Communicate to your tour information or resort manager for more particular strategies geared to children of explicit ages and passions. It is perfect weather, plus one of the stunning times of the yr with low humidity and delicate temperatures across the lakeside communities. It would be like Mexico telling individuals in Baja to not travel to California as a result of there was a mafia shootout on the streets of Chicago. Perdido Key's a lovely area of protected seashores between Orange Beach and Pensacola, close to gulf Shores, Alabama. Nevertheless, there are other locations you may stay where you will get much more out of your accommodation than just a room to stay in throughout the Olympics. As of January 31, 2010, it had 2, 244 "The House Depot" shops situated all through the United States, including the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the territories of the United States Virgin Islands and Guam (U. S. ), Canada, China and Mexico. Mexico, with completely different authorized and political systems each historically and in modern occasions, would appear to have a unique attitude towards protecting its citizenry traveling abroad, at the very least to Canada and the US, and certainly the federal government doesn't appear to have the identical authorized liability concerns, not having developed a British common legislation system which gives residents significant rights regarding claims of negligence. four. Playa del Carmen - This resort city, reachable by bus from Cancun airport, has every little thing you can ask for an excellent seaside vacation. A number of clubs are located in main inns, and standalone mega-golf equipment embody The City, CoCo Bongo and Bling. These paperwork embrace passports, delivery certificates with raised embossed seals, voter registration playing cards, or driver licenses with photograph id. If you're bringing a child younger than 18 into the nation who isn't your individual, you SHOULD have a notarized letter from the parents or guardian(s). Tulum is within a short drive to all the opposite issues that make vacationing on the Yucatan so much enjoyable and handy though possibly not so adventurous actions like golf, world class buying and night clubs as close as 30 minutes away in Playa del Carmen. Cancún still gives all of the seashores,sun and enjoyable it all the time has and if you are not looking for a quiet, unspoiled vacation spot it is a good spot to go to. A vacation in Cabo San Lucas is an experience of a life time. Even preparing your own meals will be an pleasurable solution to enjoy the native meals, and numerous resort actual estate and studios have kitchen areas available for guests to make use of. Statistically-speaking, the principal vacationer spots in Mexico have all the time been thought-about protected journey destinations. This will take longer and shall be more trouble, however if you are on a finances it could be value hunting around for one of the best deal. When occasions are good, Mexico is an amazing place to spend a while. If you are visiting for a weekend, a month, or for the winter season, Bonita Springs affords you many nice decisions. For those who feel good about a sure property and trust the individual you will have spoken with try to be assured to ebook with them. Vacationers to Mexican cities near the border must be particularly vigilant about their private safety and train prudent judgment. There have been Communion stations set up around the cities and villages where the devoted would go, and after hearing the Word of God extolled, would take Communion themselves. In other words, we might not know precisely where a hurricane is going, however we can narrow down its path to a goal zone. Tracked stump grinder: Benefits of renting tracked stump grinders embody that they can journey over rough areas of land easily and move over landscaped lawns without causing injury. With the beach condo leases serving as the most important attraction, tourists from everywhere in the world trickle into this ‘Mexican Heaven' round the year. This pottery is called Talavera Poblana, named after the Spanish metropolis, Talavera de la Reina. Britt Goodwin (2005) and Jessica Lindgren (2006) took residence the finalist locations in the two years that Huge Brother Sweden was co-produced and filmed with the Norwegian present. The 42 acres, man-made lake attracts hundreds of friends to this place annually. These rotating shifts of volunteers sit up all night and watch for unfamiliar faces and also make sure space residents make it to their doors safely. Comply with the trail away from the principle lake area and you'll discover stunning waterfall, and keep taking place this path and you can find a small set of newly discovered Mayan ruins. Although you are extra possible to have the ability to get an excellent value ticket to a different Canadian airport around the time of the Olympics, you will be confronted with a very long drive. As an illustration, cruise buddies could determine to go their very own means by day however meet for dinner and the show each evening. While you select a Mexico trip bundle you may be sure to get the most effective service doable and you can choose from so many diverse and fascinating regions to visit. The nightlife consists of numerous bars and a rising number of casinos in Cancun for added leisure.

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wionews · 7 years

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Live updates: PM Modi leaves for Germany, thanks Israeli PM for hospitality

PM Modi tweets a photograph signed by Israeli PM Netanyahu, thanking him for his hospitality.

Thank you my friend, PM @netanyahu for the signed photo, your kind words, amazing hospitality & passion towards #IndiaIsraelFriendship. http://pic.twitter.com/1jUtMG3F85

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2017

The Indian prime minister also shared other pictures of himself with Israeli PM Netanyahu from his visit

I thank the people and Government of Israel for their hospitality. This successful visit will add more energy to India-Israel relations. http://pic.twitter.com/sreMPExX9i

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2017

Thank you my friend, PM @netanyahu for the signed photo, your kind words, amazing hospitality & passion towards #IndiaIsraelFriendship. http://pic.twitter.com/1jUtMG3F85

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2017

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu accompanies PM Narendra Modi as he emplanes for Hamburg, Germany #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/TfPw293VBV

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplanes for Hamburg in Germany; PM Modi will be participating in the G-20 Summit there #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/XdoiXZMvg6

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Indian students in Israel's Tel Aviv #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/hv0opKCO8S

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

Tel Aviv: CEOs of India-Israel conclude MoUs worth over 5 bn $ on the sidelines of the visit #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/UNEVBPJuj5

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

12 MoUs signed between Indian and Israeli companies, total value of MoUs over 4.5 billion dollars: Pankaj Patel, Deputy President, India-Israel CEOs forum

We have put a simple goal that we have to increase cooperation between Indian and Israeli business sectors: President, India-Israel CEOs forum Identified sectors like agriculture, water treatment, healthcare etc where we can reach a goal of 20 billion dollars: President, India-Israel CEOs forum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends Technology Exhibition with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, in Tel Aviv #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/X7eKE6LkG9

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi is visiting Germany's Hamburg from July 6-8 for the G20 Summit: MEA PM's pre-planned bilateral meetings on sidelines of G20 Summit are with Argentina, Canada, Italy, Japan, Mexico, ROK, UK and Vietnam: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi given a demonstration of a mobile water filtration plant, at Dor beach in Haifa, Israel #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/E88gKuAqkE

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi is likely to meet Joseph Weiss of Israeli Aerospace Industries and Uzi Landau of RAFAEL Advance Defense Systems at the India-Israel CEOs Forum at Tel Aviv today

A light moment between PM Modi and PM Netanyahu at Haifa's Dor Beach

#WATCH: PM Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu at Dor beach in Haifa, Israel #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/yqQOl4dcJR

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi and PM Netanyahu at Dor beach in Haifa #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/PMQxwNQI7t

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi and PM Netanyahu unveil plaque commemorating Major Dalpat Singh(WW1 hero) in Haifa #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/HViNGcqnwj

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi pays tribute at cemetery for Indian soldiers of WWI in Haifa #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/AgoZe6KIEX

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Narendra Modi and PM Netanyahu at cemetery for Indian soldiers of WWI in Haifa, Israel #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/1hSvnWOFp9

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 6, 2017

PM Modi also shared the story of a soldier from the Maratha Light Infantry, referred to by the Israelis as "the Indian", who played a historic role in Haifa during World War I.

The photo depicts Indian soldiers leading a British military column to librate Jerusalem (December 11, 1917). http://pic.twitter.com/cgnZS590Iq

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 5, 2017

PM Modi concludes his address to the Indian community in Israel #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/8K387yNfl1

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

India will soon open Indian Cultural Center in Israel, that will keep you connected: PM Modi http://pic.twitter.com/VwOG13R91B

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

"We are soon starting Delhi-Mumbai-Tel Aviv air services," said PM Modi.

"I have a good news for you. Those Indians living in Israels are having lots of trouble over their OCI and PIO cards. I have come to know this. Relations of the heart can't be dictated by a piece of paper. There is no way you can be denied an OCI card. If you are not able to get an OCI card, it defeats the purpose of this document. Those Indian-origin individuals who have done compulsory Army service in Israel will also get OCI cards now. We will also simplify rules related to issue of OCI cards to those who have done compulsory military training," said PM Modi.

I met Moshe a few hours ago. I witnessed how the desire to live in peace can overcome the specter of terror: PM Modi

Making consistent efforts to double farmers' income by 2022, policies being formulated: PM Modi in Israel #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/E6o3gaXPkf

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Israel has surprised everyone with its new innovations in almost every field be it solar panel,solar window,agro biotechnology: PM Modi http://pic.twitter.com/7LDaLyBR15

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

And these are the three Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awardees who met the PM today http://pic.twitter.com/QExwBTPpNP

— Gopal Baglay (@MEAIndia) July 5, 2017

Both PM Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu spoke about their respective youth population and the exchange that took place informally on a people-to-people basis.

"There is one area of cooperation -- young people... Today when young Israelis go to India, they go backpacking. They go on the hummus trail -- that means places you hear Hebrew being spoken. I want Indian students to come backpacking here on the curry trail. Not too many -- just in proportion," said PM Netanyahu to loud cheering from the Indian community present.

PM Modi also recounted how Israeli PM Netanyahu sent him a photograph of Indian soldiers liberating Jerusalem in 1917 during British rule, calling the photo "heart-touching".

Recalled another famous Indian Jew, late Lt-General JFR Jacob, a Baghdadi Jew from Kolkata, who led India's charge into Bangladesh, then East Pakistan, in 1971.

We want every Indian to have their own homes, the homes to have power and water supply by 2022 by facilitating real estate companies: PM Modi

We have given real estate the status of industry so that companies of this sector can get loans on low rates: PM Modi

We have launched GST on July 1. This has achieved an old dream of one country one tax. I call it Good and Simple Tax: PM Modi

The way Sardar Patel brought different princely states together into one India, this law has managed to merge disparate tax laws in 2017: PM Modi

PM Modi remembered Shimon Perez, another great leader of Israel, calling him a great statesman.

The mantra of my government is reform, perform, transform: PM Modi

Dr Lael Anson Best is a prominent cardiothoracic surgeon from the Indian community in Israel who was among those awarded the Pravasi Samman meant for non-resident Indians. PM Modi reminded the Gujarati community members of the Best Hospital in Ahmedabad.

Mayors of various Israeli cities have also joined us today. Their love for India has drawn them here, I thank them: PM Modi

Modi also mentioned Marathi journal, Mai Boli (Mother Tongue) that is published in Israel.

Those from Cochin Kerala celebrate Onam with great pomp. A sizeable number of immigrants in Israel are from Maharashtra and Kerala.

Prime Minister Modi talks about the presence of the Indian community in Israel for hundreds of years. Mentions the legend of Sufi saint Baba Fareed who is believed to have done penance in a cave in Israel.

Sankhya aur aakar utna mayne nahi rakhta, ye Israel ne karke dikhaya aur saabit kiya hai: PM Modi

Bharat Israel ka saath parampara, sanskriti, ek doosre pe bharosa aur mitrata ka hai: PM Modi

There is a similarity even in our religions: PM Modi

#WATCH Live: PM Modi at Community Event with the Indian diaspora in Israel https://t.co/uVlVKKwlKo

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

70 varshon mein pehli baar kisi Bharatiya PM ka aana apne aap mein khushi ka avsar hai, kuch sawal nishaan bhi hai: PM Modi

Modi speaks to Indian community at Tel Aviv community centre in Hindi

#WATCH: PM Modi welcomed with 'Modi' chants as he arrived with Israeli PM Netanyahu to address the Indian diaspora #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/ZX8otdskl9

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

"When Israelis go to India, they go on the hummus trail. I want Indians to come here on the curry trail," says Netanyahu

"Prime Minister (Modi), these are the Jews of India. They love India, they love Israel," says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjami Netanyahu begins speaking to the Indian diaspora at the Tel Aviv convention centre

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to arrive shortly at Tel Aviv Convention Centre to address Indian community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to arrive shortly at Tel Aviv Convention Center to address the Indian diaspora, people throng to welcome him. http://pic.twitter.com/8gCXTnmdSa

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Watch LIVE: Cultural programmes at Tel Aviv Convention Centre ahead of PM Modi's address to the Indian community

#WATCH LIVE: Cultural programmes at Tel Aviv Convention Center ahead of PM Modi's community event address. https://t.co/eWslcKCaRL

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Cultural programmes precede PM Modi's address to the Indian community at Tel Aviv Convention Centre

Cultural programmes precede PM Modi's address to the Indian community at Tel Aviv Convention Center #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/YAkYDov7Jk

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Israeli Museum for Exhibition on Indian Jewish Heritage

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Israeli Museum for Exhibition on Indian Jewish Heritage #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/YsxCCD4rkf

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met three Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardees from Israel

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met three Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awardees from Israel #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/TU2ASZPijg

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

PM Modi meets Opposition leader Isaac Herzog

Jerusalem: Isaac Herzog, Opposition leader meets PM Narendra Modi #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/Oc4rowLFJ9

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

There was a broad agreement that the fight against terrorism won't work if it's very segmented & translated into narrow agendas: Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar

There was a broad agreement that the fight against terrorism won't work if it's very segmented & translated into narrow agendas:Foreign secy http://pic.twitter.com/R56sFO77fl

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

You can visit India anytime, will give you & your family long-term visa: PM Modi to Moshe, the now 11-yr-old survivor of 26/11 attacks

You can visit India anytime,will give you & your family long term visa:PM Modi to Moshe the now 11-yr-old survivor of 26/11 attacks http://pic.twitter.com/oJi7Ky3mo9

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

We have announced a strategic partnership in water and agriculture. It offers us a whole spectrum of possibilities: Subrahmanyam Jaishankar

We have announced a strategic partnership in water and agriculture. It offers us a whole spectrum of possibilities: Subrahmanyam Jaishankar http://pic.twitter.com/jkkJM8INii

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

#WATCH: Dear Mr Modi, I love you and your people in India says Moshe Holtzberg the now 11-year-old survivor of the 26/11 attacks http://pic.twitter.com/QCebzkvL0T

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Foreign Secretary Jaishankar: We (India and Israel) also spoke about what we could do in third countries

Indian foreign secretary conducts MEA media briefing. Says the two countries have signed 7 agreements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 26/11 survivor ‘Baby Moshe’ in Jerusalem #IndiaIsraelFriendship #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/HYpGhFRZXE

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Netanyahu tells Moshe he will accompany him when Netanyahu travels to India

Modi had invited Netanyahu to India. The Israeli PM had accepted

Moshe, during the 26/11 attacks on the Chabad House in Mumbai, was saved by his Indian nanny Sandra

Moshe now lives with his grandparents near Tel Aviv

"Prime Minister Modi I love you," says Moshe

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meets Moshe

Moshe lost his parents in the 26/11 attacks on Mumbai in 2008

He was a baby at the time. He is now 11 years old

MoU regarding cooperation in Electric Propulsion for Small Satellites, MoU for setting up of India-Israel Industrial R&D & Tech Innovation fund signed

Other agreements signed: MoU on State Water Utility Reform in India, MoU regarding cooperation in GEO-LEO Optical link

Modi: Friends, about 150 kms from here there is a slice of history in Haifa that is very dear to my country. That is the resting place of 41 soldiers of my country who laid down their lives fighting in World War I. Tomorrow I will visit Haifa

Modi invites Netanyahu to India, Netanyahu accepts

Our belief in democratic values and economic progress has been a shared pursuit: PM Modi

India has suffered first hand the violence and hatred spread by terror, so has Israel: Modi

Our talks focused on not just areas of bilateral opportunities but also how our cooperation can help cause of global peace and stability: Indian Prime Minister Modi

Our talks focused on not just areas of bilateral opportunities but also how our coop'n can help cause of global peace and stability: PM Modi http://pic.twitter.com/qbN0kL0UCK

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Israel is among the leading nations in the field of innovation,water and agriculture: PM Modi

We are being challenged by forces of terror. We have agreed to cooperate in this area: PM Netanyahu

India-Israel sign seven agreements including MoU for water conservation in India

This is a marriage made in heaven but we are implementing it here on earth: Israeli PM Netanyahu

This is a marriage made in heaven but we are implementing it here on earth: PM Netanyahu #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/56ZwYf3Ymx

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

This is a deeply moving moment for me. We are making history: Netanyahu

Remarkable visit, Israelis saying it is well worth the wait. They're thrilled with PM's visit here:India's Ambassador to Israel Pavan Kapoor

Remarkable visit, Israelis saying it is well worth the wait. They're thrilled with PM's visit here:India's Ambassador to Israel Pavan Kapoor http://pic.twitter.com/MiiJr4xWMw

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Exchange of agreements between India and Israel including three on space cooperation

Exchange of agreements between India and Israel, in Jerusalem #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/PuvNqyVlBy

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Watch: India and Israel issue joint statement

WATCH: India and Israel issue joint statement https://t.co/PrTjr9anb3

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Yes I hope Baby Moshe goes back to India once he is grown up: Rabbi Holzberg Nachman, Moshe's grandfather says

Yes I hope Baby Moshe goes back to India once he is grown up:Rabbi Holzberg Nachman,Grandfather #IndiaIsraelfriendship http://pic.twitter.com/xXKZoll3WO

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

This is a big day for Israel and the family. I welcome PM Modi here: Rabbi Holzberg Nachman, Moshe's grandfather says

Moshe was the baby who lost his parents in the attack on Mumbai's Chabad House during the 2008 Mumbai terror strike. He was rescued by his Indian nanny

Watch video: Narendra Modi meets Benjamin Netanyahu

#WATCH Jerusalem: PM Narendra Modi meets PM Benjamin Netanyahu #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/P52bHOCWCe

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem

Jerusalem: PM Narendra Modi meets PM Benjamin Netanyahu #IndiaIsraelFriendship http://pic.twitter.com/ZlmuyCmykz

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 5, 2017

PM Modi met Israel's President Revlin today. PM Modi said he was overwhelmed by the warm welcome and love he has received in Israel.

"Yaha aake bohot apnapan mila aur mere sava sau crore desh vasiyo ke liye jo apne prem dikhaya uske liye dhanyavaad," Modi said.

We want to frame our relationship that transforms the landscape of our economic engagement: PM Modi during press statement

We want to put in place a robust security partnership to respond to shared threats to our peace, stability and prosperity: Modi

Indian Jews are a living and vibrant connect to this shared history: PM Modi during press statement

India is a fast growing economy and we are using technology and innovation for the progress of our nation: PM Modi

India is a fast growing economy and we are using technology and innovation for the progress of our nation: PM Modi http://pic.twitter.com/tbFluONZ63

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

WATCH LIVE: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issue press statements

#WATCH PM Modi and Israeli PM Netanyahu issue press statements, in Israel https://t.co/e1EQ5InNxU

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

India-Israel ties have seen rapid growth over the last several years: PM Modi during press statement

India-Israel ties have seen rapid growth over the last several years: PM Modi during press statement #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/M6UiC1wbj0

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

We must resolutely oppose evils of terrorism, radicalism and violence: PM Modi during press statement

We must resolutely oppose evils of terrorism, radicalism and violence: PM Modi during press statement #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/JX7e5KcPEK

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

We also face common challenges, first of it is to defeat forces of terror. Need to stand and work together: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu

We also face common challenges, first of it is to defeat forces of terror. Need to stand and work together: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu http://pic.twitter.com/StgiyyYAoO

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Most grateful to their warm and generous hospitality: PM Modi to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during press statement

Most grateful to their warm and generous hospitality: PM Modi to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during press statement #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/Yfeksd3Emi

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

We believe we can together do great things for betterment of future of our people: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during press statement

We believe we can together do great things for betterment of future of our people: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during press statement http://pic.twitter.com/5khB4Ip5vO

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu make joint press statement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during press statement in Israel #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/HFXJOHGiKt

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the grave of Benjamin Ze'ev Herzl in Jerusalem. Herzl was one of the founders of modern political Zionism.

Israel: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits grave of Benjamin Ze'ev Herzl in Jerusalem. #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/xoBnQ8uQFn

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

The head of the Ahmaddiya community in Israel thanks Modi for support back home

Ahmadiyya head in Israel thanks PM Modi for support to community Read @ani_news story | https://t.co/bCyXC4zRlS http://pic.twitter.com/pag5Atx6xv

— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) July 4, 2017

Indian-Israeli chef Rina Pushkarna hired to rustle up vegetarian dishes for PM Modi. No poultry or meat on menu, just fish, and vegetarian dishes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs visitors' book at Yad Vashem

Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs Visitors' Book at Yad Vashem, memorial to victims of the Holocaust, in Israel #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/l82RY9t3ml

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Prime Minister Modi pays tribute, lays wreath at Yad Vashem

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute, lays wreath at Yad Vashem, memorial to victims of the Holocaust, in Israel⁠⁠⁠⁠. #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/WKxkxpi5dg

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Modi will not be visiting the Palestinian city of Ramallah, indicating that India is no longer hyphenating its Israel relationship with Palestine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at Yad Vashem, a memorial to victims of the Holocaust

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Yad Vashem, memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, in Israel⁠⁠⁠⁠. #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/Pagwft7jzv

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Modi visits Yad Vashem, a memorial to victims of the Holocaust

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Yad Vashem, memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, in Israel⁠⁠⁠⁠. #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/UFdbbPWlyP

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Modi visits Yad Vashem, a memorial to the victims of the holocaust.

#WATCH PM Narendra Modi visits Yad Vashem, memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, in Israel⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://t.co/0lJ3dihXTS

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

After Modi's visit to Danziger flower farm, a chrysanthemum will be named after him. The flower will be called "Modi".

Crysanthumun flower will be named in honour of PM Narendra Modi. The flower will be called 'Modi.' #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/pL1bsCWb4m

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

PM Modi to visit Yad Vashem, a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust⁠⁠⁠, shortly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Danziger flower farm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Danziger Flower Farm, in Israel #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/8BR7flMRDY

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

The Indian Prime Minister will stay in the same luxury suite in King David Hotel that US President Donald Trump stayed in during his visit.

PM Modi due to meet 4,000 Jews of Indian origins.

Formula for success simple, it's I-squared & T-squared which equals Indian talent & Israeli technology equals India-Israel ties for tomorrow: Israeli PM

India counts Israel among its most important partners: PM Modi

Watch welcome ceremony for PM Modi at Ben Gurion airport in Israel

#WATCH Welcome ceremony for PM Narendra Modi at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel https://t.co/7I7hEcSAAH

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

We are cooperating to secure our societies against common threats such as terrorism: PM Modi

A progressive partnership in all these areas would shape the scope of my conversation with my friend PM Benjamin Netanyahu: PM Modi

Today is July 4, exactly 41 years since Operation Entebbe when your PM and my friend Bibi lost his brother while rescuing hostage: PM Modi

Alongside building a partnership for shared economic prosperity, we are also cooperating to secure our societies: PM Modi

Modi in his welcome address mentions the raid on Entebbe in which Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu lost his brother

"I am keen to interact with Indian diaspora in Israel, including large number of Jews of Indian origin": Indian PM Narendra Modi

Watch video of Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu calling Modi "mere dost"

#WATCH Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says, 'Aapka swagat hai mere dost' welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel http://pic.twitter.com/QjtsoCek2R

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Prime Minister Modi is dressed in the colours of the Israeli flag, he is wearing a white bandhgala and a blue pocket square

"It is my singular honour to be the first ever PM of India to undertake this groundbreaking visit to Israel," says Indian Prime Minister Modi on landing in Israel

"We can do even better together, welcome to Israel my friend PM Modi": Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu

"I am confident of the real mathematics of life, of success of our partnership for many reasons; talent of our people": Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu

"We love India, admire your culture, history, democracy and commitment to progress," says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu

"Aapka swagat hai mere dost," Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says to Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu receives PM Modi at Ben Gurion Airport #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/FgFm5RWPES

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

PM Narendra Modi arrives at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/QFGnRIayPQ

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Modi is received at Ben Gurion airport by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu receives PM Modi at Ben Gurion Airport #ModiInIsrael http://pic.twitter.com/6hZnQF45cJ

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Indian Prime mInister Narendra Modi lands in Israel. This is the first visit to Israel by an Indian prime minister.

PM Narendra Modi arrives in Israel in the first-ever visit to the country by an Indian PM http://pic.twitter.com/UDwLMfKFaL

— ANI (@ANI_news) July 4, 2017

Prime Minister Modi left for Israel this morning. Modi's long-awaited visit to Israel comes amid high expectations as this is the first time an Indian prime minister will be visiting the West Asian country.

India and Israel have been co-operating in a number of areas in recent years, PM Modi is set to discuss several subjects with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu with special focus on cyber security, IT, startups and water management techniques.

India's prime minister is also expected to strengthen defence ties with Israel with India hoping to clinch major defence deals. Drone acquisition will be high on New Delhi's agenda when PM Modi meets with heads of Israeli defence companies.

PM Modi is expected to address Indians at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds on Wednesday evening which will be keenly watched by experts in both countries.

The Indian prime minister will also pay homage to Indian soldiers at the Haifa Indian Cemetery that contains the graves of 49 Commonwealth servicemen of the First World War.

Also Read: Israelis learn Hindi to welcome PM Modi

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porchenclose10019 · 7 years

Text

INTERVIEW: Designer Daan Roosegaarde on smog temples, space trash, and what's next

We’ve built cities that do us harm, according to groundbreaking Netherlands designer Daan Roosegaarde. Along with his team at Studio Roosegaarde, he’s tackling the pollution we’ve generated in our metropolises, through the power of design. Roosegarde’s Smog Free Project is currently touring China—their most recent stop is Tianjin—and Inhabitat spoke with Roosegaarde about the project and how design can help us shape a cleaner, more beautiful urban future. Check out our interview after the break…

INHABITAT: What inspired you to tackle the problem of city pollution with design?

ROOSEGAARDE: I’ve been working on landscapes of the future in the last five years, making dance floors which produce electricity when you dance on them, or bicycle paths which are charged by the sun and glow at night. I love to make public spaces which trigger people in a poetical or pragmatic way. Three and a half years ago, I was being triggered by Asia and its curiosity towards the future. On Saturday, I could see the world around me in Beijing on my 32rd floor room, but on Wednesday and Thursday it was completely covered in smog. It was a wake-up moment. I knew it was bad but it’s something different when it’s visual. Governments all around the world are investing in clean technology, electric cars, or more bicycle sharing programs, but that takes quite a long time, like 10 to 15 years, to make an impact. I wanted to make something that has an impact now.

Delhi is actually worse, in India. You’re sort of trapped in a bubble which is pushing on you, which is suppressing you. You feel nauseous at the end of the day. It’s weird that we created cities which do harm to us, which are almost like machines. And again it’s not just Beijing. Every big city has its problems with pollution. It’s a global issue.

INHABITAT: When did you start to realize that design could offer an answer?

ROOSEGAARDE: Two days later, I remembered when I was a boy, a long time ago, I always had to go to these boring children’s parties. I was playing with plastic balloons, and when you polish a plastic balloon with your hand, it becomes static: static electricity, and it attracts your hair. I can remember when I was like eight years old I was mesmerized by that. It’s like an invisible force. It is a gift from nature. So that memory pops up out of the blue, and then the idea came: what if we could use that kind of principle to build the largest smog vacuum cleaner in the world, which sucks up polluted air, cleans it, and releases clean air. So at least we have local parks where people can experience clean air. We made a very, very simple animation the day after, and then we started to talk with the indoor air purifying experts who’ve been working on this for 20 or 30 years. We made a lot of prototypes and tests and a year and half after that moment we built the first one in Rotterdam.

This project is self-commissioned. We spend our own time, money, and energy at the studio. No client is going to call me and ask, “Can you make a Smog Free Tower?” So that’s also part of innovation: you launch your own projects, and now people all around the world are coming and calling, they want to be part of it. We’ve proven that it works. It’s really important to keep investing in your own ideas.

INHABITAT: As you’re traveling through China, what do you hope people take away from the tour of the Smog Free Project? First the local people, and then also the government officials that see the towers?

ROOSEGAARDE: What we want to achieve is two things. One, it’s a local solution on a park level: to create these bubbles of clean air in the city. And that has been proven quite effective: 55 to 70 percent cleaner than the rest of the city. This week is very, very important for us because we’re launching independent scientific research done by the Eindhoven University of Technology with Professor Bert Blocken, a renowned expert in fine particles. They have done extended measurements and research, and this week we’re launching a report which proves the impact and effect of the tower on the local scale: it collects 70 percent PM 10 and 50 percent PM 2.5 on the park scale level. So that’s very positive. And that’s an independent study from a university, you can’t buy them. And it’s being validated now, being peer reviewed and will be published in the coming months. So the idea was to create local places where people can feel the difference, where they can smell the difference, and where they can experience the future.

The second goal is to start a conversation. To say, “hey guys, students, makers, scientists, whomever, what do we need to do to make a whole city smog free?” So we did Smog Free Workshops and the response has been great. We had a girl who made fashion which changes in color when the smog level is too high. We had a Beijing designer who made a sort of wearable greenhouse, like a backpack, so you can breathe in clean air from the plants you’re carrying with you. This has been really great to activate the discussion. The final solution in that way is government with a focus on clean air, electrical cars, green technology, etc.; that’s top down, but we want to move bottom up and tackle all of that, and we meet in the middle and that creates impact, that creates change.

From these sessions, from one at Tsinghua University in Beijing, new ideas popped up like the Smog Free Bicycle. The bicycle sucks up polluted air, cleans it, and releases it as clean air. The technology is similar to the Smog Free Tower. Beijing was a cycling city 10 or 12 years ago, and that completely disappeared because everybody wanted a car, and everybody now is in a traffic jam and it’s polluted. But the bicycle is a powerful cultural icon. So we want to bring back the bicycle and upgrade it in the celebration of the bicycle in the fight against car pollution. This is also part of the Smog Free Project; it’s the next big idea we’re spending time and energy on. It’s been intense, it’s a politically-centered topic, it’s something new, people have to get used to it. Everybody has opinions about it. Very few have proposals. But step by step we’re creating impact.

INHABITAT: I heard about the Smog Free Bicycles and I wanted to ask about those: how the idea came about and the also a little bit more about how they work.

ROOSEGAARDE: The idea of enhancing bicycles has been around for a while. For example, Matt Hope, a Beijing artist, worked on it years ago, and before that some other artists as well. So we did the workshop with him in Beijing, and with students from Tsinghua University. They have a lot of bicycle sharing programs like Mobike, and so that’s where we got the idea and thought what if we could take it and push it further.

The bicycle releases clean air in area around the face. We don’t want to work with masks or anything; it should be a kind of plug-in to the existing bicycle.

Why not, right? We came so far with making crazy ideas happen, this should be doable as well. What is fascinating with innovation, with new ideas, is that in the beginning, there are always some people—most of them are enthusiastic but there are always some people who say, “It’s not allowed,” or “You cannot do it.” But you know what happens now with the Smog Free Project, I have top officials from the government coming to me, and saying, “Oh that’s a good idea, why didn’t you do it before?” I’m saying this with a smile; it’s one of the things about innovation, and you have to go through it, but that’s good, that means you are changing something. You are changing a mentality. But you have to fight for it.

INHABITAT: Last year the China Forum of Environmental Journalists suggested that the Smog Free Tower in Beijing wasn’t doing its job effectively. What do you think of their findings?

ROOSEGAARDE: I read that. It’s quite difficult, because I’ve never met the people, and I’m curious what they based on findings on. I think it’s really good people are engaged with the project, and are thinking about it, and are discussing it: what should be, what shouldn’t it be; so I think that’s positive. We knew the tower worked, and we now have the scientific data to back us up. And yeah, let’s keep on pushing what is possible. But basically, the idea is very simple: build the largest vacuum cleaner in the world, so of course it works. I find it hard to grasp how it could not work. What I think is, everybody has opinions, but let’s work at proposals.

INHABITAT: Based on discussions around the tower, do you think you’ll change the design of the tower at all or do you think it’s working well for the goal you have for it?

ROOSEGAARDE: We’re not changing the design of the tower. Why would I? No, we’re going to keep it like this. The name and design are going to stay like this. I think maybe in the future, I’ll have some new ideas. We want to make it run on solar panels, that’s an important one. And we’re designing bigger versions for larger public spaces. There will be new versions, but this one that we have is perfectly fine. The design is based on Chinese pagodas, Chinese temples. So there’s also this history element in it, and the Chinese love it. When they visit here they lovingly call it the Clean Air Temple.

But I think your question is valid. One tower will of course not the solve the whole problem of a city, that is very clear. I think the goal is to create these local clean air parks, and at the same time educate people, to say hey, what do we need to do to make the whole city smog free? There’s a lot of work to be done. We shouldn’t wait for government. We shouldn’t wait for anyone.

INHABITAT: You’ve devoted a lot of creative energy to smog and pollution in the last few years. But recently you’ve turned your attention to space trash. Why do you think this is a serious issue, and how can design help solve the problem?

ROOSEGAARDE: When you start something new, you always start as an amateur. You start to read, to learn, to talk with the experts. Now I can say I’m an expert in smog after three years, which is great, but it’s always nice to be an amateur again. So now I’m an amateur in space waste. There are millions of particles floating caused by satellites crashing. And it’s a big problem, because if particles like these hit an existing satellite, the satellite goes down, and no more Facebook, no more Inhabitat, no more mobile banking, and nobody really knows how to clean it. And it’s going to get worse. If we continue like this for the coming five to 10 years there will be so much pollution we won’t even be able to launch missiles anymore because they’ll be damaged by particles. Space is endless, and then we have planet Earth floating here, and somehow we were able to trap ourselves in a layer of space pollution. How are we going to explain that to our grandchildren? That’s insane. So what the Smog Free Ring is for Beijing, and what the Smog Free Tower is for China, can we apply that thinking to space waste? I don’t know how and what or when. I’ve had several sessions with space scientists. It is a problem, and somebody needs to fix it. And that’s been fascinating. So that’s the next adventure.

For me, a project like this not just about technology or ideology. I’m a trained artist, so for me it’s about the notion of beauty, or of schoonheid. “Schoonheid” is a very typical Dutch word that has two meanings. One is like the beauty of a painting that you look at and then get inspired. But it also means cleanness, like clean energy, clean water, clean air. That element of schoonheid is what I’m striving for. When we design cities or a product or a car or a landscape, schoonheid should be part of the DNA, and we should really start making places which are good for people. This is the big idea we’re aiming for, and in a way all the projects we’ve been talking about are sort of prototypes or examples.

INHABITAT: Your work often explores relationships between humans and technology, but you have also been critical of all the time we spend in front of screens. How would you describe a healthy relationship with technology?

ROOSEGAARDE: I think it’s bizarre that we’re feeding into our emotions, our hopes, and dreams into these computer screens. We’re feeding this virtual cloud: Facebook, Twitter. And somehow our physical world is almost disconnected from creative or innovative thinking. Most of the physical places are suffering from pollution, floods, you name it. And that’s sort of weird. Our ideas, our money, our focus is online. I would love to connect these worlds again, the virtual and the analog and really say, “Hey, how can we use technology—and design, and creative thinking—to improve life and make places which are good for people again?” Is it George Orwell, are we reducing human activity, or is it Leonardo Da Vinci, where we enhance ourselves as human beings via technology? If you read like Bruce Sterling or Kevin Kelly, they have been talking about that for many years, which I really, really like. And I hope that the prototypes or projects I’ve made somehow contribute to that way of thinking, of enhancing yourself and exploring yourself.

At the World Economic Forum, they had Top 10 Skills research about the future skills you and I need to become successful. Number three is creativity, number two critical thinking, and number one is complex problem solving. What I think will happen is that as we live in a hyper-technological world, our human skills: our desire for knowledge, our desire for beauty, our desire for empathy, and our desire for interaction, will become even more important because that is something robots and computers cannot copy or do for us. I believe we will have a renaissance of the arts and sciences. I hope again that the things I do contribute to that trajectory.

INHABITAT What are three major things you’d change in today’s cities to make them more sustainable?

ROOSEGAARDE: I think I mentioned it with schoonheid: clean energy, clean water, clean air. And maybe the notion of circular: food should not be wasted but become food for the other. Most of all I hope it’s a city which triggers me, where I feel like a citizen and not just a taxpayer.

I’ve been thinking of Marshall McLuhan in the past few weeks. In Vancouver, I gave a TED talk, and quoted McLuhan who said “On spacecraft Earth there are no passengers; we are all crew.” We’re makers; we’re not just consumers. And so how can we make landscapes which trigger that kind of mentality? That’s what wakes me up every day at 6:30. And again, my designs are in that way not just designs or art installations but really very concrete proposals of how I want the future to look like. It’s been great to work with designers, experts, and engineers to make it happen. I think that’s good to mention because sometimes the focus is a bit too much on me, but we have a great studio in Rotterdam where 16 people are working really, really hard every day, and without them I could never make it happen.

INHABITAT: What’s next? Do you have any plans for future projects in the works?

ROOSEGAARDE: We’re working on the redesign of Afsluitdijk Dike, it’s a famous 32-kilometer dam in the Netherlands that protects us from drowning and dying. What you should know is dikes in the Netherlands are as holy as cows are in India. Now after almost 80 years the dike is in need of renovation, and the minister of infrastructure, Melanie Schultz, commissioned my studio to enhance the iconic value of that dike. And that’s going to be great. We’re going to make kites in the air, which connected with a cable generate electricity. We’re working with light-emitting algae. We’re launching three more new projects in September, October, and November of this year.

+ Studio Roosegaarde

Images courtesy of Studio Roosegaarde

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rtawngs20815 · 7 years