Solution of the Month

Solutions 03-04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10

EWB-I explores each month a type of sustainable and appropriate solution to problems faced by communities worldwide. Unique tools (technologies, software, books, etc.) or cutting edge programs and initiatives are presented.

Appropriate technology for developing communities is usually characterized as being small scale, energy efficient, environmentally sound, labor-intensive, and controlled by the local community. It must be simple enough to be maintained by the people using it. Furthermore, it must match the user and the need in complexity and scale and must be designed to foster self-reliance, cooperation and responsibility. Studies by the World Bank and the United Nations have shown, however, that appropriate technology is critical to bringing more than 3 billion people out of poverty.