Good-news blogging

As an antidote to bad or wearing recent news, two glimmers of hope in difficult circumstances: First, a newly designed water pump for water-poor regions of the world combines play and necessity by using a children's merry-go-round to power the water into a tank, from which people can then collect it as needed.

The Play-Pump is capable of producing 1400 litres per hour at 16 rpm from a depth of 40m, and is effective up to a depth of 100m. A typical hand pump installation cannot compete with this delivery rate, even with substantial effort.

Less toting, more effectiveness, and encouragement of fun. That's good humanitarian effort!
(via boing boing)

In a related story, an experimental eco-village has proved that sustainability works in the most inhospitable climates.

“They have planted millions of trees, thus regenerating an indigenous rainforest. They farm organically and use wind and solar power. Every family enjoys free housing, community meals, and schooling. There are no weapons, no police, no jail. There is no mayor.”

Animal waste fuels the furnace at the local hospital, which is cooled by funneled breezes. And on and on -- amazing.

(via Rebecca's Pocket, I think...)