Barrett, The Honors College Thesis/Creative Project Collection

Water quality and accessibility can impact most aspects of life such as hygiene, medicine, thermal comfort, sewage disposal, and health, to name a few. Rising concerns related to the quality of drinking water in the United States caused by municipal water utility failures such as in Texas or in Michigan has led to an inquiry into the root cause of how a supply-chain for a basic necessity such as water can run into issues. After initial research and investigation, one hypothesis for this was the nature of how recyclable materials in a linear economy eventually run into production or storage problems as exhaustible resources (or space) become less accessible over time. To remedy this issue, LifeGear360 is introduced to allow individual users the liberty to treat their water directly if needed, while also remaining in a circular economy for the lifecycle of the product. As a backpack with water treatment capabilities, natural plant fibers are used to ensure a renewable cycle of production while also redefining the traditional “plastic-taste” characteristics many people associate with water pouches to a smoother, cleaner taste. Engineering, sustainability, and business and public service practice have been used in an interdisciplinary way to prepare this product for its intended use such as in school, for travel, and for the outdoors. According to the collected outreach, many indicated that they feel as though there is a need for a product that allows for the feeling of water security which can include carrying any personal belongings as well. Marketing strategies such as logo creating and online outreach continually influence product design, up until production would take place following the finalized design.

Green Pages is a sustainability-focused magazine publication created by our team in response to the need for increased post-secondary awareness and interest in the ethical circular economy. The magazine, designed and written by Dale Helvoigt, Caroline Yu, and Anne Snyder is available digitally and free of charge so that students and non-students alike have access to information and resources regarding sustainability. Each article is thoroughly researched with references provided so our readers seek to continue their education into our content. The end goal of Green Pages is to foster interest in all individuals, especially young people, on the current environmental climate and the sustainable practices that can be adopted into one's lifestyle in pursuit of a "greener" future.