HUMAN POWER PLANT - MELLE SMETS & KRIS DE DECKER

For the Department of Search, Melle Smets and Kris De Decker investigate the possibilities of a zero-footprint energy supply. Fossil fuels, like coal and gas, are not inexhaustible and cause problems like climate change, air pollution and geopolitical tensions. Various alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar energy, have the drawback of not always being available in proportion to demand (think of the large difference in hours of sunshine between summer and winter, for example). However, there is another way of generating energy: man.

Melle Smets works as a conceptual artist, curator and researcher in the public area. His work is focused on creating new meeting places in the public area. He uses existing social structures and local customs as a basis, presents an alternative view on the living environment and turns ideas into actions, to trigger change and get people involved in shaping our environment.

www.mellesmets.nl

Kris De Decker is a research journalist and founder of Lowtech Magazine. This magazine covers news and insights into the environment, energy and technology. Whereas the solution of major issues is often sought in high-tech approaches, Lowtech Magazine tries to find low-tech solutions. Since man has gained experience of making life on Earth comfortable for many centuries, a huge source of knowledge and skills is available. Lowtech Magazine opens up this reservoir.

www.krisdedecker.org