Appropriate technology

Nigerian pupils work on OLPC computers in Abuja, Nigeria, in May, 2007.

Let’s talk: How can technology change the lives of people in poverty?

Modern technology has tremendous power to improve lives in the developing world. Why does it often fail to do so? Take part in a discussion with professionals working in the field.Modern technology has tremendous power to improve lives in the developing world. Why does it often fail to do so? Take part in a discussion with professionals working in the field.

Dr. Oluyombo Awojobi inspects the autoclaves at his clinic in Eruwa, Nigeria. The autoclaves, which sterilize surgical equipment, are made from recycled propane cylinders.

This Nigerian doctor runs his hospital on corn cobs and used bike parts

Health & Medicine
Taxis, buses and other cars stuck in the honking traffic in Kolkata, India

Bicyclists in crowded Indian city fight to take back the streets

Environment

With water system unreliable, some Mexicans turn to rain to keep their homes supplied

Environment

Successful energy development program in Haiti shut down because of funding

Clean energy sector surging in Massachusetts

Environment

Job growth has been hard to come in in this economy. But in Massachusetts at least, the clean energy industry is adding jobs at a brisk pace. Fueled by decreased costs, increased availability and federal tax credits, the clean energy economy was adding jobs at an 11 percent clip last year.

The Promise and Perils of Playpump

The Playpump was designed to be a fun way to bring water to African children. The reality has many questioning how organizations can help developing nations.

Recycled trash to fuel Haiti

Environment

A factory in Haiti provides a tree-saving alternative to charcoal by producing briquettes made from trash.

Bamboo bicycles for eco-conscious consumers

Bicycle frames made of bamboo will be available for sale in the US next year — they’re eco-friendly, extremely durable and made in Zambia.

Energy challenges for post-nuclear Germany

Environment

Germany plans to phase out nuclear energy and replace it with renewable sources, such as wind and solar power.