When asked to picture the Himalayas, it's likely visions of snowy peaks that come to mind rather than images of the culture and people living in the chilly mountain range above India. Today we're going to break up those snowy images and talk about some of the Himalayan communities being supported by One Earth Designs.
One Earth Designs is a social business fostering social innovation in the region and helping to empower triple bottom line entrepreneurs.
"One Earth Designs serves as a catalyst for socially and environmentally minded innovation among Himalayan agricultural and nomadic communities," the website explains. "Acting as a conduit through which communities can access technical and business support, we unleash the potential of modern design thinking."
Their programs include school construction, designing engineering programs, incubating sustainable local businesses and addressing immediate needs like providing heating systems in educational facilities and aiding in water supply.
Recently they co-designed the 3-in-1 SolSource, which can be seen in the gallery.
"The SolSource is a lightweight solar energy device that provides users with a low-cost and portable means of cooking, heating and electricity generation," the website explains.
One Earth Designs was founded in 2007 and is based in Kowloon, Hong Kong. It has been recognized by organizations and programs like MIT, the Clinton Global Initiative and the Yunus Innovation Challenge.
Contact Information
One Earth Designs website
One Earth Designs on Facebook
One Earth Designs on Twitter
Incubating Himalayan Innovation
'One Earth Designs' Promotes Eco and Social Entrepreneurship
Trend Themes
1. Social Innovation in Himalayan Communities - Opportunity for businesses to develop sustainable solutions for the specific needs of Himalayan agricultural and nomadic communities.
2. Triple Bottom Line Entrepreneurship - Development of businesses that prioritize social, environmental, and financial goals, presenting opportunities for businesses to create innovative products and services that align with these values.
3. Portable Solar Energy Devices - Rising demand for lightweight, low-cost solar energy devices that can provide cooking, heating, and electricity generation, creating opportunities for businesses to develop disruptive solutions in the renewable energy sector.
Industry Implications
1. Social Entrepreneurship - Incubators and support programs that help nurture social entrepreneurs and their ventures, fostering innovation for social and environmental impact.
2. Renewable Energy - Companies specializing in renewable energy technologies and devices, with a focus on portable solar energy devices for remote and off-grid communities.
3. Education - Opportunities exist for businesses to provide educational resources, engineering programs, and infrastructure development in Himalayan communities, contributing to the empowerment and advancement of local populations.