Showing papers on "Appropriate technology published in 2016"

An Appropriate Technology Based Solution to Convert Waste Plastic into Fuel Oil in Underdeveloped Regions

Abstract: Along with population and urbanization in developing countries, the amount of municipal solid waste generated is also increasing. Although programs and initiatives to recycle and manage waste can often be found in the major population centers, these technologies are slow to spread to or are not yet present in the rural areas. Heavily populated urban slums are also lacking in the infrastructure needed to collect and manage trash, particularly plastic packaging. To address this challenge, the University of Kentucky Appropriate Technology and Sustainability (UKATS) research team has developed an appropriate technology based, sustainable solution to convert plastic from Municipal Solid Waste, such as High/Low Density Polyethylene, Polypropylene and Polystyrene into a valuable hydrocarbon fuel, suitable for underdeveloped or poverty stricken communities. The UKATS Processor is designed as a waste minimization solution specifically for underdeveloped communities, comprised of a simple, non-automated, multifunctional processor built using a wood fueled rocket stove as the primary heat source. This processor is designed using the principles of appropriate technology and sustainability and can be constructed using non-standard materials commonly present in rural or underdeveloped areas. This research focuses on utilizing plastic waste to produce a fuel oil product similar to kerosene or diesel in composition.

Value creation in open-source hardware communities: Case study of Open Source Ecology

Abstract: Technical progress in production technology, the advancement and spread of information and communication technologies (ICT) as well as the spill-over of the highly efficient and innovative open source principles to the world of physical products represent a new set of tools and concepts to address the challenges of sustainable economic development. Correspondingly, we can observe (new) modes of value creation that put into question traditional economic strategies and assumptions by stressing collaboration instead of competition and knowledge sharing instead of black box engineering. Open Source Ecology (OSE) is a famous example of a nonprofit organization which fosters worldwide participation and collaboration to jointly develop open source hardware for operation in both developing and industrialized countries. Based on the concepts open source appropriate technology (OSAT), the community aims at the free access to the knowledge and knowhow of low-cost and easy-to-build products to empower people to build and run a civilization. This case study describes and analyzes the value creation processes of OSE and derives new opportunities for business models based on openness.

Brazil’s Tropical Solutions for Africa: Tractors, Matracas and the Politics of ‘Appropriate Technology’

Abstract: This article focusses on mechanical farming technology sponsored by Brazil’s South-South cooperation in Africa. Tractors and matracas are taken as symbols of different agricultural development pathways promoted by Brazilian players. One stark contrast is between high-powered mechanised farming and no-till conservation agriculture. Another is between large-scale agriculture and small-scale family farming. Embrapa, widely known as the champion of the Green Revolution in Brazil, has also encouraged a conservation route and the use of no-till and small-scale equipment, such as matracas. The Brazilian Ministry of Agrarian Development, leading advocate of family farming and of political opposition to large-scale farming, has inadvertently sponsored tractors, feeding a new wave of mechanisation across Africa that overlooks the potential of smaller-scale alternatives. Brazilian actors and their African counterparts have instrumentally deployed technology, and tractors particularly, in the pursuit of their interests, whereas considerations about technological appropriateness to local conditions have hardly played a role.

A short history of how we think and talk about sanitation services and why it matters

Abstract: How we think and talk about sanitation services has changed. The very notion of a sanitation service has been transformed from one focused on technology to one focused on the sustainability of the wider sanitation system. This paper explores the transformation from technology to system by drawing from a review of more than 200 pieces of literature published between 1970 and 2015. Seven prevalent perspectives on sanitation service provision are introduced: sanitation services as a basic human need ; increasing service coverage through appropriate technology ; the emergence of community-participation and community-management ; an interest in private-sector participation ; the sanitation crisis being viewed as a crisis of governance ; sanitation considered inherently political and the current focus on sustainable sanitation systems . These seven perspectives form a useful conceptual frame, which may guide the thinking of sanitation practitioners, policy-makers and academics as they begin to consider how to meet the water and sanitation Sustainable Development Goal by 2030. In this paper, four examples of how the conceptual frame might be used to support thinking are provided.

Innovation in Solid Waste Management through Clean Development Mechanism in Developing Countries

Abstract: Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) has emerged as a core issue, which needs to be tackled effectively in developing countries. The burgeoning population indicates increased MSW generation rates indirectly posing challenge to the final disposal. The final disposal is of critical importance as it largely impacts the environment and public health. A number of technologies are available for management and treatment of MSW but choosing the appropriate one depends on the nature of MSW and local conditions. Selecting the appropriate technology also helps to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thereby mitigating climate change. The opportunity to reduce GHG emissions is offered by the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). This paper reports how MSW can be managed effectively through CDM. 350 MSW projects have been registered under CDM across 56 developing countries. 51,292,568 metric tons of CO2e are estimated to be reduced through these 350 projects. China registered the maximum number of projects (102), followed by Brazil and Mexico registering 45 and 28 projects, respectively. Overall, 175 projects from China, Brazil, and Mexico account for about 51.63% of the total estimated emissions reductions. Asian region reported the highest number of projects (191) followed by South American region (123). 16 methodologies have been used as stand-alone as well as in combination for management of MSW through CDM and cover several areas through which the potential of MSW can be trapped. China and India used the maximum methodologies (9) followed by Brazil (7). Registering for CDM offers financial benefits as well as technology transfer and ultimately sustainable development. Source reduction and technology development to suit local needs are the areas where developing countries can focus. An integrated system for solid waste management is perfectly suitable for developing countries.

A Holistic Framework for Evaluation and Selection of Remanufacturing Operations: An Approach

Abstract: Lack of efficient evaluation methods to help decision makers in making informed decision regarding in-house technology investments, outsourcing technology, and manual activities in the remanufacturing industry has raised serious concerns in the selection process of technologies based on company size and resources. This has resulted in the inability of decision makers to broadly assess the scope of alternative technologies against remanufacturing processes. Thus, it has resulted in the choice of a common solution based on inconsistencies and uncertainties. This paper proposes a holistic framework that can assist decision makers in evaluating the remanufacturing operations by offering better understanding of the performance and potential capabilities in the selection of appropriate technology. The salient feature of the proposed framework is its utilization of the fuzzy logic method as guiding tool to analyze criteria for technology selection in order to make informed decisions on whether to invest or outsource a technology or use labor-intensive operations to the specific process. The paper also highlights importance of the technology assessment framework in aligning and consolidating the dedicated thinking for the life cycle of the particular technology. The major contribution of the framework is its integration of obsolete and disposal phases with the acquisition and adoption phases. Therefore, during technology assessment, decision makers are guided by a step-by-step iterative process on technology requirement verification.

Open Source 3-D Printers: An Appropriate Technology for Developing Communities

Abstract: The recent introduction of RepRap (Self-Replicating Rapid Prototyper) 3-D printers and the resultant open source technological improvements have resulted in affordable 3-D printing, enabling low-cost distributed manufacturing for individuals. This development and others such as the rise of open source-appropriate technology (OSAT) and solar powered 3-D printing are moving 3-D printing from an industry specific technology to one that could be used in the developing world for sustainable development. In this paper, we explore some specific technological improvements and how distributed manufacturing with open-source 3-D printing can provide sustainable development by creating wealth for developing world communities through the ability to print less expensive and customized products. Conclusions on the technical viability of 3-D printing to assist in development and recommendations on how developing communities can fully exploit this technology have been outlined.

Exploring BYOD Usage in the Classroom and Policies.

Abstract: This paper presents results of an exploratory study that investigated instructor and student perceptions of in-class use of personal mobile devices and policies for appropriate practices. The study is based on an undergraduate course offered at a higher education institution in the United Arab Emirates. Eighteen students and one instructor participated in the study. A mix methods approach was adopted. Data collection consisted of a survey, focus group and individual interviews. Quantitative results suggested an overall tendency to use the devices rarely for content and non-content related activities. Qualitative results, however, indicated more usage of the devices, but not to the extent to cause disruptions in class. The study furthers the discussion on a bring your own device (BYOD) policy development. When developing BYOD policies for appropriate practices in the classroom, educational institutions should take into account students' context, culture and main stakeholders' opinion. Policy implementation should be complemented with training to support effective BYOD integration in the classroom.

Sustainable Access to Treated Drinking Water in Rural India

Abstract: Rural drinking water supply is a persistent public health challenge in India, but with shifting contours. Pathogenic contamination of surface waters and water in shallow aquifers was sought to be addressed through massive tube-well programs in the 1980s and 1990s. However, chemical contamination of water in deeper aquifers is now widespread, often associated with irreversible public health damage, and is forcing yet another rethink. While government policies are still focused on the increasingly scarce “alternative safe sources,” there is growing realization of the need to purify water for domestic consumption, even in rural areas. However, access to safe drinking water is largely seen as a government responsibility. But, barring Gujarat, large-scale rural drinking water schemes based on regional water supply have not materialized. Decentralized solutions face challenges of appropriate technology, management capacity, financing options, and environmental impacts. Models of public–private partnerships, community-managed systems, and social enterprises have emerged under the circumstances. These models are explored, with the help of case studies, in this chapter to understand what needs to be done, and by whom, for a sustainable and scalable solution.

Could open source ecology and open source appropriate technology be used as a roadmap from technology colony

Abstract: In the quest for sustainability, emerging economies can no longer rely on the vertical transference of foreign technologies. Therefore, the development of endogenous technologies as a driver of any sustainable national industrialisation efforts should be reoriented. Technological independence is profound in ensuring sustainability, which according to the research findings, is inhibited by the resilient status of a technology colony. A technology colony demonstrates interests in production and sales, than in idea generation, research and development (R&D), and industrialisation of new products or services. The aim of this article is to provide a brief explanation on what a technology colony is, and how it affects innovation and development. In a next step, the significance of open source ecology (OSE) and open source appropriate technology (OSAT) concepts as a roadmap to eliminate the effects of technology colonisation on the sustainable development of emerging economies are explored relying on a qualitative literature review.

The Role of Compatibility in Technology Adoption among Automobile Mechanics in Micro and Small Enterprises in Kenya

Abstract: Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are facing tremendous challenges and threats to survive in a competitive environment. As a matter of fact, MSEs are faced with the threat of failure with past statistics indicating that three out five fail within the first few months. In spite of this fact, automobile mechanics in this informal sector have been slow in adopting modern technology despite the advantages that are attributed to new innovations. This study aimed to determine factors that influence technology adoption among automobile mechanics in micro and small enterprises in Nakuru town; Kenya. One of the specific objectives of the study was to establish the role of compatibility in the adoption of technology. The research used a descriptive cross sectional survey design and employed both probability and non-probability sampling techniques to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Applying the Binary logistic regression analysis and using SPSS to analyze, the study found that, adoption of various modern automobile technologies are influenced; among other factors, the perceived attitude in terms of compatibility of a particular innovation. However, it was revealed that although a larger proportion of the innovations are compatible, adoption to the same is significantly quite low. The study recommended that the government should emphasize and create an innovation awareness system and invest in appropriate technology by way of developing relevant training curriculum for the mechanics based on industry and environmental needs. This study is significant as its findings, if implemented; can jump-start the informal mechanics towards achieving quality, competitiveness and both human and environmental safety.

Penerapan Teknologi Tepat Guna Padi Sawah Spesifik Lokasi di Dusun Ponggok, Trimulyo, Jetis, Bantul

Abstract: The role of technology is very important in supporting improvement of agricultural production. The high-tech strategic role was demonstrated by the success in achieving increased production of rice within the last 35 years is the contribution of the application of more advanced technology. Mosher et al. (2003) put technology as an essential condition for agricultural development. If there is no change in the technological development of agriculture was halted. Production halted the increase, it may even decline because of declining fertility tannic or because of damage increased by pest play an increasingly rampant. A view to changing the technology, can be interpreted as an adaptive technology on the condition of the biophysical and social environment of the local culture. Practical application of specific technologies by farmers, for example how farmers adjust to the conditions of cultivation of local agro-ecosystem forming a specific production system on irrigated land, rainfed lowland, upland, swampy areas, and tidal. Choice according to agro-ecosystem farmers are adapting cultivation is calibration-specific technologies. It’s caused each commodity grows well on climatic conditions, soil and culture-specific social support. Community service activities has been implementing the specific technology that is enriched with appropriate technology research team of the Faculty of Agriculture of UGM by utilizing site-specific conditions of Ponggok Hamlet, Trimulyo, Jetis, Bantul, which have ingredients that can be used for making fertilizer and also wisdom locations in rice cultivation which has been done by farmers for generations. Community Service Team of Faculty of Agriculture, UGM during 2013-2015 had engaged in community service based on the results of research and appropriate technologies in Ponggok Hamlet, for 2 seasons seen significant progress and participation of farmers. In 2013 the results of the demonstration plot tile average of 6.8 tons/ha, after continuous mentoring and counseling in 2014 the results of tile becomes 7.8 to 9.8 tons/ha. Activities application of appropriate technology in a farmer’s land is not easy. Although guidance and counseling has been done before, but not all farmers want and dare to carry out all of the technology that is recommended because it is still in doubt, especially with regard to plant spacing, seed age and the number of seedlings planted. In 2015, a technology package has been introduced covering healthy seedlings, planting system “footprint tiger”, “tajarwo”, homemade compost with waste around the site and biological fertilizers. The results of the application of specific technologies in the growing season of April to July 2015 showed an increase in rice production, but the farmer as a principal factor remains the key to successful application of the technology.

The development and evaluation of a speciality handknitting yarn using appropriate technology for the empowerment of women in rural India

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is about understanding an existing situation in a South Indian village and developing a strategy to produce and market speciality hand knitting yarn, involving the unpaid labour (women) in the handloom industry. An observation method (field study) is used to identify an appropriate method for the design and development of speciality yarns. Design/methodology/approach Participatory action research is a recursive process that identifies methods leading to the choice of appropriate technology (AT) for the production of speciality yarn. A field study observation method was carried out to identify an AT that is acceptable for the community considering their socio-cultural background of the society. Once the technology (AT) was identified to design the speciality yarn, the research then tests the quality and marketability of the yarn. Findings The method used for product design and quality testing can be adapted by researchers and designers to develop craft items that can build a platform to start a small-scale business. The research describes a model/framework that could be used/investigated by other bodies in the future. Research limitations/implications The limitation of AT and the approach taken for research cannot be clearly identified without testing the production method with the women in the village. Originality/value This research confirms that along with identifying a sustainable method of production for speciality yarn, it is very essential to ensure the quality of the product that can compete with other market-available hand knitting yarns.

Is there a renewed role for appropriate technology in the new global innovation system

Abstract: In a recent article, Kaplinsky (2011, Research Policy, 193–203) envisions a new and more ubiquitous role for appropriate technology in the emerging world innovation order marked by high relative shares of R and D in China and India. Against this however I posit that he mischaracterises the situation before and during the 1970s and in particular the assumption that appropriate innovations in that period were generated only by NGOs (when in fact they were widely used in certain East Asian countries mainly on the basis of private enterprise); he wrongly assumes that the absolute poor have no propensity to consume high-income characteristics - thus excluding this group from the analysis; he has no reservations about the induced innovation model which is central to his thesis and he ignores the connection between appropriate technology and inequality. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Technology Acquisition, Catching Up and Competitiveness in Pakistan

Abstract: The growth trajectories of developed and developing countries are diverging rather than converging as expected from theory. Five policy areas have been identified that are crucial for ensuring development efforts succeed, of which a vital area is in innovation promotion and imitation and accelerated or sustained catching up policies. It is generally agreed that positive progress is required on all the five policy fronts highlighted above, for there to be sustained growth over long time horizons. Against this backdrop, a key concern for developing countries that merits further research in the context of learning by doing and innovation promotion is: what has been the country’s performance with regard to technology acquisition for purposes of enhancing productivity? Has the country been effective in its efforts to acquire the appropriate technology needed to boost productivity levels? Has the country made effective use of the technology acquired? What market failure(s), if any, are constraining the country’s ability to acquire the technology and make appropriate use of it? This research addresses these questions in the light of the experience of Pakistan’s economy, focusing on the development of the domestic automotive industry. The research frames these issues in the context of rent-seeking, political settlements and firm-level efficiency and proposes a framework of analysis that allows for an assessment of technology acquisition efforts at the firm level.

A decentralized, renewable-energy-powered business hub for rural areas: A case study of Ilakan community, Nigeria

Abstract: Ilakan community in South-West Nigeria, with a population of about 300 dwellers, has had no access to any form of electricity since its existence. A large percentage of the population is very active and engages in productive activities, predominantly farming. This paper aims at providing affordable, clean, off-grid electricity to the community by designing a decentralized energy hub where residents of the community can have energy access irrespective of its applications or their occupation. The average solar radiation for the community is about 4.5MJ/m2/day and it is adequate to power all the dc and ac loads of this specially designed renewable-energy-powered business hub. This centrally-located hub is expected to improve the health and socio-economic activities of the community and address other vital issues resulting from the lack of access to electricity. It can also help to improve environmental performance in terms of energy efficiency and carbon emissions. The most successful mini-grid schemes developed were designed taking into account local economic, social and environmental conditions. An idea of the energy audit of the particular location is very important in the design of renewable mini-grids. Detailed site analysis also helps with appropriate technology selection that will give some estimate of the projected output.

Addressing Cultural Challenges in a Global Service Learning Project to Reduce Plastic Waste in Rural India

Abstract: In the summer of 2015, a group of chemical and mechanical engineering undergraduate students from the University of Kentucky Paducah Extended Campus Program participated in a Global Service Learning and Sustainability course focused on implementing a project to convert waste plastic into a sustainable liquid fuel in rural southern India. The successful construction, operation and testing of the liquid fuel in local diesel powered irrigation pumps will be described. Service learning projects conducted in other countries often face cultural hurdles that are quite different than in traditional study abroad programs. Working side-by-side with local people requires adapting to cultural practices that may be quite different from the students’ expectations. To address this, cultural aspects and social sustainability were included in a lecture component of the service learning course as well as in the implementation of the service project. The learning outcomes for this course included providing students with clear understanding of the key issues of sustainability and sustainable community development in rural and underdeveloped regions and educating them as to how engineers must consider cultural factors when working in underdeveloped regions. This service learning project was conducted in collaboration with the Organization of Development Action and Maintenance (ODAM) in Tiruchuli, India.

A computer-aided scenario analysis of national and regional energy systems based on feasible technology options

Abstract: We developed a method for analysing scenarios of future energy systems implementing a variety of feasible technology options based on an energy flow model. The model was modularized and represented as functionals of appropriate technology options, which enables the aggregation and disaggregation of energy systems by defining functionals for single technologies, packages integrating multi-technologies, and mini-systems. In this study, we applied this model into the future energy-system design in regional and national boundaries of Japan. The combinations of technologies on both energy supply and demand sides can be addressed considering not only the societal scenarios such as resource prices, economic growth and population change but also the technical scenarios including the development and penetration of energy-related technologies such as decentralized solid oxide fuel cells in residential sectors and new-generation vehicles, and the replacement of current technologies such as heat pumps for air conditioning and centralized power generation. Through case studies on national and regional energy systems, it was demonstrated that the contribution of technologies to, e.g., the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, should be carefully examined by quantitative analyses of interdependencies of the technology options for actual decision-making on energy systems. A micro grid incorporating renewable resources including solar, wind, and biomass can be optimized by implementing industrial symbiosis, which can be strategically designed through energy flows simulation by developed model.

Learning What Works in Educational Technology with a Case Study of EDUSTAR. Policy Memo 2016-01.

Abstract: 2 CHAPTER

Evaluating the enhancement and improvement of China's technology and financial services platform innovation strategy

Abstract: The development of high-tech industry has been prosperous around the world in past decades, while technology and finance have already become the most significant issues in the information era. While high-tech firms are a major force behind a country's economic development, it requires a lot of money for the development process, as well as the financing difficulties for its potential problems, thus, how to evaluate and establish appropriate technology and financial services platforms innovation strategy has become one of the most critical and difficult issues. Moreover, how the chosen intertwined financial environment can be optimized in order that high-tech firms financing problems can be decided has seldom been addressed. Thus, this research aims to establish a technology and financial services platform innovation strategy improvement model, as based on the hybrid MADM model, which addresses the main causal factors and amended priorities in order to strengthen ongoing planning. A DEMATEL technique, as based on Analytic Network Process, as well as modified VIKOR, will be proposed for selecting and re-configuring the aspired technology and financial services platform. An empirical study, as based on China's technology and financial services platform innovation strategy, will be provided for verifying the effectiveness of this proposed methodology. Based on expert interviews, technology and financial services platforms innovation strategy improvement should be made in the following order: credit guarantee platform (C)_credit rating platform (B)_investment and finance platform (A).

Using a recycled container to setup a community learning centre in rural Cambodia — A case study

Abstract: The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in K-12 education has been gaining attention in recent years. With using appropriate technology, not only can it allow people to have equal opportunity in education, but also improve the quality of teaching and learning. However, this is difficult in developing countries due to the lack of resources, infrastructure, support from the local community, skills, culture and policy. In 2014, according to World DataBank indicators, over half of the population in East Asia & Pacific region were not able to access the Internet. In Cambodia, this figure drops to less than one-tenth. This paper investigates complementing education in developing countries through appropriate technology and a sustainable model that maximizes short-term efforts from foreign teams. We present a case study in Cambodia whereby a zero-carbon community learning centre was designed and installed for a rural community. The first phase deployment involved a recycled twenty-foot container, furnished with solar panels, computer devices, Internet hotspot, books and toys. A sustainable model was developed through engaging local community leaders and empowering resident university students. Follow-up evaluations suggest that community ownership and buy-in are critical for success. We present design principles, implementation methods, evaluations from the experience, feedback from stakeholders, and lessons learnt.

The Influence of Proactive Career Behaviours on Psychological Well-being among Malaysian Engineers

Abstract: As the key engine to support the country’s economic transformation goal, the influence of engineers on the lives of people comes with tremendous responsibilities (Abdull Rahman, 2012). Because they add values through the use of appropriate technology and processes (Malan, 2004), engineers need to be equipped with ways to build and capitalize on their strength, to keep up with changes in technology and to shorten design cycles and computerizing designs. All these are needed to maintain their excellent performance. Unfortunately, these tremendous responsibilities, such as the strong need for growth and personal development, have influenced the engineers’ psychological well-being. The lack of attention given to studying engineer’s psychological well-being has worsened the scenario, especially in the context of Asian countries. Therefore, this article reports on the influence of proactive career behaviours on engineer’s psychological well-being. In the context of this study, 387 registered professional engine...

Strategic Technology strengthens the Capacity of Libraries to serve their Communities

Abstract: In this era where libraries face enormous pressures in terms of inadequate funding and increasing demands for their services, technology plays a large factor in their success. The stakes for libraries to deploy the most appropriate technology platforms for resource management and discovery have never been higher. Academic, research, and national libraries experience more complexity than ever in managing collections of large scale and diverse formats. Public libraries need systems optimized as much for lending e-books or other digital materials in addition to their longstanding print offerings. Marshall Breeding, an expert in library resource management and discovery services will provide an overview of the technology products now available and how they have been received by libraries globally and explore some the major trends currently underway. The presentation will cover the major proprietary and open source options and will address their adoption across geographic and economic sectors. The presentation is based on Breeding’s ongoing research published in the annual Library Systems Report, the International Perceptions Survey of Library Automation, and from other data managed in Library Technology Guides (librarytechnology.org).

The Politics of Investing in Sustainable Energy Systems

Abstract: Now that the global human population has passed the 7 billion (7 × 10 9 ) mark the availability of all resources to provide sufficient resources for everyone—not excess for a few and poverty for the many—and the inextricable bind between food, energy, and water must be respected. While current policies and business models often treat water, energy, and food security separately, issues in one of these sectors must be addressed with the understanding of this interdependence and seek holistic solutions to address the water–energy–food nexus. If sustainability of the human race is considered to be important then the politics of investing in renewable energy systems is not (whether we like it or not) best served by the post–Industrial Revolution capitalist model. Investment in energy systems must be based on long-term peaceful societal benefit and not “exploitation as usual.” The most significant roles of investment should be for the development of appropriate technology in creating access to sustainable energy for developing nations to benefit their local population and, wherever possible, there should be universal access to knowledge of developing sustainable energy technologies for locally appropriate use. Continued linear exploitation of resources will only undermine our long-term survival; there is no magic solution that will allow us to continue our current usage patterns. In short, capitalism is not sustainable, but the highly indebted nature of overdeveloped nations and the need to service that debt mean that it is a fairground ride that we cannot get off. In addition to a circular economy, our economic model should take into account the need to reduce globalization and increase localization, which often leads to cries of protectionism from those nations wishing to export into the local economy and is in direct opposition to the present investment mantra.

Utilization of Appropriate Technology in Textile Design Field

Abstract: Technical advances contribute to the affluent life of human society. However, many people in underdeveloped countries live in poverty. Hence, many social groups are making efforts to improve their quality of life. The concept of appropriate technology is central to this endeavor. Utilization of appropriate technology in the textile design sector is one of the most efficient ways to make a living, while maintaining traditional skills and tools. It differs from the supply mechanism of advanced technology and products to people in the underdeveloped countries. In this study, we aimed to explore the fundamental ways toward self-reliance among citizens of substantially underdeveloped countries by integrating appropriate technology in the field of textile design. Application types were analyzed by researching cases that incorporate appropriate technology in textile design. These are classified into three ways based on underdeveloped regions, developed countries, and collaborative case with designers and companies. Improvement of the 3 aspects was approached in terms of product development, ongoing management and expansion popularity.

Affordable Housing: Reality or Myth

Abstract: Objectives: The concept of affordable housing is new in India and still not clearly defined. There are so many myths prevailing about this concept, so there is need to define this concept in Indian context. At present the scope of affordable housing is limited to only construction cost of housing but there is need to investigate the affordability in its operation cost as well maintenance cost. Methods/Analysis: The concept of affordability is defined in the context of initial cost of house, its operation cost and maintenance cost as well its location from the work place of owners. The various myths prevailing in the name of affordable housing among various stake holders have also been discussed. It has also been discussed to reduce the cost of housing though various parameters such as design approach, construction management and appropriate building materials and technology. Findings: The affordable housing is not only targeting to poor people but it also includes the middle income group having income up to 10 lacs per annum. It has been also find out that affordable housing is not similar to low cost housing, the difference lies in its approach. The major focus of low cost housing is to reduce the cost by use of low end technology and low cost materials even with compromise in facilities while affordable housing is not limited to this concept, it can afford to use high end technology and hightech materials too. The construction cost of affordable housing could be reduced through compact planning, sharing of the common facilities among various housing, sharing of the services and structure between the units of the same housing, sustainable building materials, appropriate technology and construction management. The operation cost of housing could be reduced through design process such as orientation of blocks and units, building envelope design, landscaping, road and parking etc. Applications: The role of architectural design process is most important in reducing the operational cost of affordable housing along with construction cost to certain extent.