Feeling the Heat Exhibit, part III

Here's another exhibit element from the Birch Aquarium's climate exhibit. After being inundated by the reality of just how bad the climate situation is, we wanted the visitors to learn, via interactive exhibits, that it's not out of their hands - there are things that everyone can do Right Now, at Home, to help reduce their carbon footprint.

First we conceptualized a Green house, like a giant doll house with parts that opened, closed, switched on and off. While exploring the house, tidbits of friendly information and tips would be revealed, like how much $$ one might save per year if you switched all your light bulbs from incandescents to compact fluorescents. You could open the garage and voila, a hybrid vehicle. On the roof, solar panels.

When it was apparent that floor space was limited, the design became 2 dimensional; like an advent calendar where kids could search for flaps that opened and provided info. Home technology was to be emphasized, like low-flow shower heads, energystar approved appliances, etc.

Finally, the design was overtaken by the outside design company, and they created a 2D house with rotating panels that revealed information as one manually turned the wheel-like device. The bright windows you see in the photo demonstrate the heat lost (energy wasted) by incandescent lights compared to fluorescent; place your hand on the window and glass and literally feel the heat.