Modern problem solved by ancient idea

Escalators are everywhere. They're especially prevalent in subway systems and malls. For those who have trouble taking the stairs, escalators are extremely helpful. But I notice way too many able-bodied people just standing there. Convenience aside, escalators are wasteful. According to a study performed by the Hong Kong Housing Authority, escalators use:

• 1700-2500 watts while no one is riding
• 4000-5400 watts with just 16 people riding

That's the equivalent of powering 28 to 90 light bulbs! There's gotta be a better way...

In fact, someone solved this issue nearly 7,000 years ago: the stairs. Not only is 0 watts required to operate the stairs, Facility Architects is developing a solution that will actually generate electricity from people's foot steps. Living in a supply/demand type of world, I expect that if fewer people use escalators, we'll be much more likely to see these types of innovations pop up.

The docs at Duke support stair-steppers. I enjoy taking the stairs because it helps me to:

• burn calories.
• reach my goal of 30 minutes of daily activity.
• beat the people standing on the escalator.

Image: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Escalator.jpg

What is your walk score?

Walking can improve your health, reduce greenhouse gases, and help you meet people. According to Walk Score™, these are just a few of the reasons to factor in how walkable you next address can be. Walk Score™ uses any address to find local businesses, schools, parks, etc to assign a score between 0 and 100. 0 means driving is absolutely required and 100 means you can get most anything you need by walking. Walking is undeniably good, but check out the DOT's website on pedestrian safety for some useful information.

Before signing a lease at my current apartment, I surveyed the area for local businesses (I didn't know about Walk Score™ at that time). Immediately, I discovered three major grocery stores, dozens of restaurants (including one vegetarian!), an Office Depot, Starbuck's, hardware stores and many other businesses. Walk Score™ confirms this with a score of 83 (Very Walkable: It's possible to get by without owning a car). Over the course of a year, I expect to save hundreds of dollars in gas and many hours of driving time. I'll also get some decent exercise.

Image: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image:Crowd_Tokyo.jpg