Video: 10 minute genius

UNSW SMaRT Centre Director, Professor Veena features in an educational video created by the UNSW Centre for Ideas, talking about how waste materials can become renewable resources.

The UNSW Centre for Ideas says: "In this digital age where a universe of information is accessible within seconds, it's easy to be paralysed by the simple question of where to begin."

"Introducing: Ten Minute Genius, a programme designed to provide pause and create a space in which you can engage with new ideas. We have curated a collection of material scientists, philosophers and math lovers to  help you make some sense of this relentless information vortex. Learn to appreciate the true value of garbage, how to practice safer sex, why Australia is lying about it’s carbon emissions and more. And because you’re busy, all we ask of you is just ten minutes."

The Centre adds: "Waste has a bad reputation. Rubbish, unwanted, disgusting, gross. But when we hold our noses as we scuttle past an overflowing bin in the street, we are passing by a world of recycling opportunities. In nature there is no such thing as garbage, it's a series of complex circular eco systems where everything has a purpose, and nothing is left to waste - so why should our lives be any different? According to material scientists, it doesn’t have to be. Rather than bury our trash or toss it in the bin, we should be excited by the idea of creating something entirely new - the idea of a used can, a discarded tyre or a smashed iPhone is a gateway to a brave new world of recycled products, like components for 3D printers, textiles and home furnishings. So, think twice next time you discard your plastic water bottle because it may actually hold the secrets to unlocking a new type of protective garment or a greener type of steel."

"In the time it takes to melt an aluminium can, material scientist and engineer Veena Sahajwalla explains why not everything belongs in the bin."

Centre for Ideas website