permaculture

Workshop Module 12: Appropriate Technology 323

PR

ESEN

TATIO

N

FAC

ILITATOR

Presentation : Appropriate technology

Method : Facilitator presentation

Tools : Images, black/white board, markers

References : PC Book MOD 12 - Appropriate Technology

Objective : Participants learn about the importance of appropriate technology

Much of our current technology harms our planet through pollution or by
stripping the environment of non-renewable resources. This causes many local
problems. This is also creating more extreme cycles of weather. It is a situation that will
get worse unless changes are made worldwide and more sustainable technologies are
used. If Indonesia’s large population becomes sustainable it can make a huge contribution
to the world’s sustainable future.

There are many technologies that can replace these destructive conventional practices.
These are called appropriate technologies because they:

• Are maintained and repaired using local skills.


• Do not pollute the environment.


• Do not deplete the environment of non-renewable resources.


• Are understood and maintained by the communities using them.


• Are affordable.


• Reduce energy use – Electricity, labor, fuel, firewood, etc.


• Use natural, reusable energy whenever possible.

Well-designed, locally available technologies can be used to replace existing
less appropriate models, for example:

• Ovens and stoves made from clay, drums, cement and sawdust, tin metal, and
  solar cookers.


• Cooking fuels made from charcoal bricks, bamboo charcoal.


• Solar driers made from wood, glass, and plastic for drying fish, meat,
  vegetables, nuts, and fruit.


• Natural cold food storage systems.


• Electricity made from hydroelectric, biogas, solar, and wind systems.


• Car fuels made from coconut oil for diesel cars and diesel engines.


• Pumps – Ram pumps, foot pumps, treadle pumps, and solar powered water
  pumps.


• Pedal powered grinders.


• Oil extraction.


• Buffaloes and cows for ploughing fields.

Appropriate technology helps to improve the quality of life while protecting the land and
environment and progressing towards a sustainable future.