Top 5 Must-See Eco Inventions

I think we all have seen or heard a lot of new green or eco-inventions around the globe from the media. Some are interesting, some could be useful and some are just plain silly. Below is the list of eco-inventions that I believe are must-see and quite entertaining to read.

1. Solar-powered Bra

Yes you read right, Triumph International Japan has invented the first ever eco-friendly bra! The bra features a waist-mounted solar panel that powers a small electronic device you choose to connect. Which means that you can charge your phone when you're wearing this bra! Hmmm handy.

Image via Nikkei

Are you self-conscious about your bra cup size? Not to worry, this bra is not only environmentally- friendly, but it can also increase your bust size. A pair of reusable drink containers are attached to the bra cups to reduce the consumption of aluminium cans and plastic bottles while increasing bust size. Ah amazing.

2. Solar Jacket for Men

In a more serious note, this jacket may have a more promising future than the bra. It looks attractive, stylish and nothing out of the ordinary from a normal jacket - except that it is made from recycled plastic. 

Image via Ecouterre

The solar panels on the upper sleeves power up a heating device to keep you warm and toasty while at the same time can hold enough electricity to recharge your phone or iPod. The solar panels can be taken out at night to keep you looking normal in public and are also washable. Good stuff! The jacket comes with adapters for major communication devices. Problem? You can purchase this jacket for US$750 at Saks Fifth Avenue. 

3. Bio-degradable Car

The Phoenix is the world's first bamboo and rattan car to avoid the amount of wastes produced by old cars. The car was built in 10 days of bamboo, rattan, steel and nylon. 

Image via Inhabitat

The 153-inches long Phenix is unique with its organic fibers biodegradable skin that is designed to last the average of a person keeps a car - 5 years in industrialized countries and 10-20 years elsewhere. The skin however can be replaced inexpensively if the owner wishes to keep the car longer.

4. Eco Beer

A new discovery by engineers shows that using steam to brew the wort can reduce brewing time by half while also using half the energy! This could be one of those rare win-win situation for everyone -- beer companies make more profit and we all can drink beer while saving the planet!

Image via The Sun and Tim Parkinson

5. Eco-Boat

Earthrace is New Zealand's very own 100% biodiesel 100% carbon neutral boat that made headlines all over the world. The hull was composed of a composite carbon fibre with a non-toxic anti-fouling paint. Earthrace runs on 100% renewable biodiesel fuels and also has zero carbon footprint! 

Image via Earthrace Conservation

It runs on vegetable oil, animal fat and human fat alongside many other biodiesel fuels. Pete Bethune, a Kiwi skipper, underwent liposuction and donated enough of his body fat to make 100ml of biofuel. Dedication!