Creative Challenge: Plastic Bottle Crusher
Why crush plastic bottles?
Plastic bottles take up a lot of space bins and landfill. By crushing them, you can reduce the amount of space which makes it easier and more efficient to transport. It may also encourage more recycling of plastic bottles.
Link to stories that teach about sustainability:
(Waste Reduction Design Challenge)
School Level: Middle to Upper Primary
Other Ideas: Prove a well organised collection and disposal system for waste.
Decrease the size of (landfill) rubbish bins to encourage more thoughtful use and disposal, or minimisation of waste.
Here Comes the Garbage Barge
By Jonah Winter
This book can be used to teach students about the stages of waste disposal.
Topic: Waste
The Challenge: Make a plastic bottle crusher!
Guide:
Here is a simplified guide on how to make a basic plastic bottle crusher. Please note that safety precautions should be taken when working with machinery, and the following instructions are for guidance purposes only. Always prioritize safety.
- Frame: You will need a sturdy frame to support the crushing mechanism.
- Crushing mechanism: You need a simple lever mechanism for this. This will require a strong arm and a pivot point.
- Crushing plate: A strong plate to crush the bottles against.
- Mechanical system: Depending on your design, you may need a mechanical system to apply force to the crushing mechanism.
- Hand/foot crank system: To provide more power for the crushing action.
- Safety: You need to ensure it is safe to use.
- Base or stand: A stable base or stand to support the crusher.
*Keep in mind that this is a simplified guide, and the actual design and construction may vary depending on your specific requirements and the materials and tools you have available. It's essential to prioritize safety and ensure that the crusher is properly built and maintained to prevent accidents.
Ideas and Examples
