Watch Design with the Other 90 Percent

Design with the Other 90 Percent is a fascinating and informative series that explores how people in the developing world are using ingenious design solutions to tackle the challenges posed by poverty, lack of resources, and environmental degradation. Produced by Smithsonian Earth, the show offers an inspiring look at the ways in which ordinary people are using their creativity, resourcefulness, and ingenuity to address some of the most pressing issues facing their communities.

Each episode of Design with the Other 90 Percent focuses on a different aspect of sustainable design, showcasing innovative solutions that are emerging from a diverse range of cultures and traditions. Whether it's a solar-powered irrigation system in Sri Lanka or a recycled plastic waste project in Kenya, the show highlights the importance of local knowledge and indigenous materials in designing sustainable solutions that work for local communities.

One of the strengths of the series is its emphasis on collaboration and community engagement. The designers and entrepreneurs featured in each episode are always working closely with local people to ensure that their projects are not only effective, but also socially and culturally appropriate. Whether it's working with local farmers to develop new irrigation techniques or collaborating with artisans to create new products from recycled materials, the show highlights the importance of building partnerships and empowering communities.

The show also explores the broader social and economic context in which sustainable design is emerging. Many of the challenges faced by the communities featured in the series are the result of systemic issues such as poverty and inequality, and the show does not shy away from these complex issues. Instead, it offers a thoughtful and nuanced perspective on the relationship between design, development, and social change.

Despite its focus on the "other 90 percent" of the world's population, the series is not just about poverty and hardship. On the contrary, each episode is filled with inspiring stories of resilience and innovation, as people from all walks of life use their creativity and resourcefulness to overcome obstacles and create a better future for themselves and their communities. From young entrepreneurs in Brazil to traditional craftspeople in India, the show offers a rich and diverse picture of the many different ways in which sustainable design is taking shape around the world.

Overall, Design with the Other 90 Percent is an engaging and informative series that offers a fresh perspective on sustainable design and development. By highlighting the importance of local knowledge, community engagement, and cultural sensitivity, the show offers valuable lessons for anyone who is interested in designing a more sustainable and equitable world. Whether you are a designer, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who cares about the future of our planet, this series is a must-watch.

Design with the Other 90 Percent is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between July 7, 2012 and on Smithsonian Earth