GenV Campaigns

VENTURE: Sustainable Treehouse

Posted on 02. Mar, 2009 by Charles Tsai in E-Ventures, Environment, Tech-Ventures, Technology

Emily Nunez, 19, USA - I want to build a sustainable treehouse on the Middlebury College campus that serves the dual purposes of an outdoor classroom for the college as well as a captivating destination where elementary students can learn about environmental education and stewardship. The students at Middlebury have a reputation of giving back to society, even on a global scale. This project would allow them to focus on the state and local communities and offer more students the opportunity to experience the gratification that volunteering can provide.

My Introduction to Architectural design class will be working on the design. With the help of Forever Young Treehouse Company, we will craft a handicap accessible design. Here are just a few of the ways we will make the outdoor classroom sustainable:

• passive solar heating
• rainwater catch system
• ceiling fans instead of air conditioning
• build with reused timber
• easy access to compost and recycling
• furniture made from recycled materials
• CFL bulbs
• corn burning stove for gas heat

We want to not only educate young students, but also instill the feelings of joy and freedom associated with climbing a tree that are unknown to many people.

Goals:

1. Complete a design
2. Initiate fundraising and material donations
3. Recruit student teachers and construction volunteers
4. Start building and writing curriculum

Here is an example of a Forever Young Treehouse.

Tags: Environment09, Invention09, USA