Devices to help the world

Here and Now

Imagine that you have to save the world, but you only have a month. That, on a smaller scale, is the goal of the International Design and Development Seminar held earlier this month at M.I.T.

An eclectic group of inventors -- engineers, doctors, farmers, students, and more -- descend on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for the second annual International Development and Design Summit, where they conceive, design and build devices to help the developing world.

Last year's inaugural summit resulted in a low-cost refrigeration system and a device to reduce smoke from cooking fires. This year's projects are equally ambitious.

The seminar lasts for a month and ended in early August. "Here and Now" visited the conference and heard about some of their projects, including an attempt to build an incubator for under $100.

"Here and Now" is an essential midday news magazine for those who want the latest news and expanded conversation on today's hot-button topics: public affairs, foreign policy, science and technology, the arts and more.

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PRI's coverage of social entrepreneurship is supported by the Skoll Foundation.

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