In a previous article, we covered two ways ancient technologies are being used in innovative and sustainable ways to mitigate the effects of climate change across industries. Roman self-healing concrete and sheep grazing to preserve and protect ruins aside, a multitude of other old, sustainable-focused inventions, ideas, and technologies are returning to the forefront of innovation.
With that out of the way, here are two more ways ancient technologies are making a climate-fueled comeback in 2024.
A Substitute For Charcoal
Charcoal, the solid black fuel produced by heating wood and other organic materials at high temperatures in low-oxygen environments, has been used by humans for tens of thousands of years, if not longer (hint: cave drawings!). Without stating the obvious, charcoal is not a very sustainable fuel source, given that its production typically requires deforestation and it emits a lot of pollutants into the atmosphere.
Photo Courtesy Hans Benn
Biochar, an ancient material extremely similar to charcoal, has also been used for thousands of years, and it’s making a comeback thanks to its sustainable production properties. In short, biochar is sourced from feedstock and other organic waste materials, which makes it a much greener product than charcoal. However, it’s mainly used as a soil amendment, so don’t look to charcoal to be replaced immediately by this alternative substance.
That doesn’t mean it can’t have a major impact on the environment.
According to Project Drawdown, mass adoption of biochar as a soil amendment could reduce the equivalent of 1.3 to 3 gigatons of carbon dioxide global emissions annually by 2050.
What’s more, the global market for this sustainable material is predicted to reach more than $587 million by 2030 in the United States alone, so don’t expect this to be the last time you hear about biochar.
Underground Food Storage
Researching old technologies with modern applications is a surefire way to encounter the Roman Empire. And, marvelous accomplishments like the aqueducts, miles and miles of paved roads, and public baths notwithstanding, a recent archeological discovery also suggests that the Romans were using refrigerators for an all-important task: cooling their wine.
The squared-shaped “ancient refrigerator” doesn’t resemble its modern-day counterparts. However, it did perform the same function by ingeniously running cold water pipes directly next to itself, keeping the contents inside it cool. The Roman’s underground fridge isn’t the only instance of this type of innovation.
Upon realizing North America’s climate was much hotter and more humid than across the ocean, European settlers developed root cellars.
Built underground, they were primarily used to keep produce cool during the hot months and above freezing during the cold months before eventually losing popularity when modern refrigeration was invented.
Recently, their popularity has grown in agricultural communities, and others are finding creative applications that build upon it, like the Groundfridge.
Photo Courtesy Groundfridge
Operating without electricity of any kind, the Groundfridge is a modern spin on root cellars. The 3,000-liter storage capacity underground fridge — looking like a mix between a small doomsday bunker and a bathtub — remains a cool temperature throughout the year. It’s designed to maximize ease of use and installation, naturally insulates itself from the outside world, and can be used for off-grid living or just home gardening.
It may seem like a simple product, but it offers a glimpse into how old technologies and ideas can be blended into world-changing inventions with just a bit of creativity, execution, and belief.
