What opportunities have opened up for you since your inventions have taken off?
Loads! As a relatively young inventor – and a female one at that – I’ve received a lot of attention for my ideas. As a result I’ve had some amazing experiences over the last few years, like visiting 10 Downing Street and going to the TED conference in California. I know I’ve had lots of opportunities because I don’t fit the profile of a typical inventor – and there’s still room for more young, female inventors so I’d encourage other women to give it a go.
Tell us about the work you have been doing in third world countries with your inventions…
I spent several months in Africa during my gap year in 2006 – I went with the aim of volunteering but also testing my refrigerator in the conditions, and with the people, it was intended for. Once I had completed the design I gave away the concept for free and started teaching people in Africa how to use it. This helped communities to develop new skills and then, once they had mastered it, to pass this on to others. So as well as having an important environmental impact, I hope the fridge has made a difference to communities in Africa on social and economic levels as well.
What is the next project you are working on?
I’m currently working on a second generation version of my sustainable fridge. The first fridge uses the evaporation process to keep food and drinks cool but dry and is ideal for use in developing countries in Africa. I actually gave away that invention for use by people there. However, this fridge will be based on a different theory and will be for commercial use.
Also, a lot of my time is spent not just coming up with my own ideas but actually inspiring others – especially young people – to think creatively and sustainably.
What are your views on climate change?
We need to educate young people – and their parents – about the truth behind climate change. Even when I was at school – not that long ago! – we thought global warming meant we’d all enjoy great beach holidays in the UK, so no one was really that concerned. However, the reality is a lot more frightening and people in developing countries are already experiencing climate change’s negative affects. Ed Gillespie is an incredibly inspiring speaker on this topic – I heard him say that to make a real difference to the future of the planet we must start sharing kettles between neighbours and TV’s between streets.
As a woman, what one thing do you wish we could invent, regardless of whether or not it's possible, to make out lives easier?
I don’t have children myself but I know lots of women find it hard to juggle the demands of parenting with maintaining a fulfilling career. So my ultimate female invention would be a virtual child-minder, where you could be looking after your kids in one reality and getting on with work in an alternate one. The ‘best of both worlds’ approach with a futuristic twist!
Do you ever find it hard to convince people that things you have invented are viable?
Like all inventors, I’ve come up against all sorts of barriers when trying to push through new ideas. However, I’m incredibly passionate about what I do and with enough determination I believe people can overcome these kinds of hurdles. I’d urge people not to be put off and simply keep trying new ways to get heard. In many ways, my age and the fact and I’m a woman has worked in my favour – whereas men might come up with a business plan and follow it up with an invention, women tend to come up with a solution to a problem that really works and then back it up with the business side of things.
What do you think has been the worst invention of the past 20 years?
Anything which uses up loads of energy without actually being useful. For example, I’ve seen fridges with built-in television screens – something like that would consume a huge amount of electricity and yet no one can really claim to needing one!
FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison