A few weeks ago, a massive typhoon named Haiyan hit the Philippines, with a city named Tacloban at its epicenter. Thousands were hurt or killed in this catastrophe, and most of the buildings were wrecked by strong winds and high tides. I truly feel sorry for those affected by the hurricane, especially for any Eco-generation members living in the area. It is also a thankful thing that rescue and recovery jobs are being done.

           While looking at this whole story, an interesting project came to my mind, which I read about a few months ago in a book called Design for the Other 90%. The book was about various appropriate technologies, which are literally technologies that are appropriate for anyone. A common example is the LIFE STRAW. Anyway, the project that came to my mind was the KATRINA FURNITURE PROJECT.

             The project is, as you can see in its name, aimed for the recovery and future of those affected by hurricane Katrina. As you well know, hurricane Katrina was just as massive as hurricane Haiyan, or even worse. The main program of this project is to recycle woods and other materials from damaged buildings and reuse them to make furniture. That way, people could reduce the amount of waste created from buildings while making cheap furniture and giving them to those in need.

             I think the same project could be held out in the Philippines, as there are many damaged buildings along with a lot of people in need for furniture. It we held a ?HAIYAN FURNITURE PROJECT?, we could get the same hopeful results. It is true that hurricane Haiyan was a catastrophe that should not have happened. However, I think that it would be better to take it as an opportunity than just a problem. Once again, I hope a quick recovery for those living in the Philippines.