News | UKStudent’s design tweak for washing machines could help save planetInnovators: Student Dylan Knight, right, with Nottingham Trent University professor Amin Al-HabaibehNottingham Trent UniversitySebastian Mann4 August 2017A simple device for washing machines could dramatically cut carbon emissions and make the planet greener.Appliances are typically weighted down with heavy concrete to stop them moving during spin cycles.But now researchers have designed a sealable plastic container that can be filled with water after the washing machine is in place – meaning the appliance weighs up to a third less during transit.As a result, trucks carrying the machines use less fuel and produce smaller amounts of pollution. The tweak could also help prevent back injuries caused when moving the heavy appliances.Left: A typical washing machine with a heavy concrete block. Right: One containing the new plastic device, which can be filled with water after deliveryNottingham Trent UniversityA team at Nottingham Trent University helped develop the product, with prototypes tested by student Dylan Knight, 22, as part of an undergraduate project.Read MoreKeeping washing machine in the kitchen 'disgusting', says Allsopp'Curry mode' washing machine launches for Indian marketSamsung’s woes roll on with washing machine problemsHe told the BBC: "Everyone thinks the idea must have been thought of before. No one can really believe it. But I promise you it definitely works."Product design company Tochi Tech Ltd came up with the idea and worked with the university.Now the firm is in discussions with manufacturers to investigate possible flaws before a wider-scale rethink can be considered, the BBC reported.MORE ABOUTEnvironment
