Interview with the United States

My first interview included two project developers from the United States. These students each had very different ideas for developing an application. One of the developers described how California contains recycling outlets and deals at local Walmart and Kostco stores. These"reward" or give costumers 5 cents back when they return a certain number of bottles. Though California is taking a "Go Green" initiative, New York residents have not followed previously passed bottle bills closely enough. People must become more aware of the current pollution issue. By using Google Maps and entering your current address, the new application can show the recycling locations nearest to you. Though the application will primarily be dedicated to bottle recycling, products that do not use regular recycling procedures such as cell phones and batteries can potentially be added onto the application later on.

Another possible idea includes developing an application that can measure the amount of gas a person saves by using public transportation. California currently uses Google Maps to measure the amount of time a resident would spend driving to a location and the cost of the trip versus the public transportation time and cost. The new application can show the number of gas emissions released depending on how far you travel. The challenge with this idea is that it may take people longer to adjust especially if they do not like public transportation or if it is too expensive. However, by making individuals aware of how many natural resources are lost in consumption, there is hope for a greener environment. The application can provide a more cost effective alternative. There will be less traffic, less pollution, and more awareness.

Electricity conservation is another focus for this project. Many appliances are now built with an “away” mode for when users are on vacation. For example, switching water heaters to this mode keeps the water warm and uses significantly less energy than the amount of energy required to maintain a full tank of hot water. Unplugging mobile chargers, laptops, televisions and other appliances when not in use can reduce “phantom power”. This is energy that is still consumed even when appliances are on standby. Creating an application that controls heating and electricity from different locations can result in less power consumption. It can also bring a sense of responsibility among society.