What a Great Idea!

Thoughts on using problem solving and applied creativity techniques to promote social change. I'll be offering some of my own project ideas as well.

Name:
Location: Alexandria, Virginia, United States

I'm a sociologist who has done research, taught sociology, worked as a VISTA, and done lots of writing. My goal is to write nonfiction that will encourage people to look at the world in a different, but positive, way.

Sunday, December 03, 2006

Vending Machines Can Save the World

I've been thinking about using vending machines to sell new products and ideas, the sorts of products and ideas that are consistent with sustainable development goals. You can already buy coffee, tea, beer, lottery tickets, and so many other things from vending machines.


Why not use them to sell fair trade and organic products? What to sell though? How about fair trade chocolate bars, organic coffee or tea, and stuff for travelers. Travel sized organic soap would be probably sell. I'm sure you can come up with other products to sell in vending machines. Organic trail mix seems like another good choice. You can probably think of more possibilities if you try.


Cray thought: Why can't a vending machine be solar powered, with a battery for night operations? I'm not sure if it is technically feasible to generate enough power this way. And of course many vending machines are stuck in alcoves or corners of building where they wouldn't get enough light. Solar-powered vending machines could work in limited circumstances.  Some highway rest stops have rows of vending machines standing alone under shelters. Maybe solar power is practical for those locations.


Vending machines always have bright fronts that advertise the products you can get. Maybe, these lighted fronts are a good place for social marketing messages. Be reminded that "Only you can prevent forest fires." while you get a cup of organic coffee. Companies use their packaging and their print ads to inform customers that they use renewable energy or recycle extensively. Why not use vending machines to tell people about the importance of sustainable agriculture or renewable energy?


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