Emily Cummins

Cummin’s first invention was a sustainable refrigerator. This idea was spurred by her realization that the world cannot continue to rely on appliances powered by fossil fuels.[7] She wanted to help make the world a bit more sustainable and provide an option that did not require fossil fuels. In order to do this, she created a refrigerator that is powered by dirty water. Her design is unique and ideal for the developing world. This is because no electricity is required, and it can also be built by using ordinary household and sustainable items. [8] In terms of the design of the refrigerator, it has two metallic cylinders, one inside the other. Between these cylinders, the user is able to tightly pack locally sourced material like sand or wool. The user then soaks this material with water. The sun and heat causes the water to evaporate, and this energy is transferred away from the inner cylinder, causing it to cool down. This design is unique compared to other pot-in-pot coolers because the water does not touch the product. This ensures the contents remain dry and clean. [9]

Cummin’s second invention was a water carrier. Again, this invention is aimed for the developing world, as many African women and children walk miles each day to collect water. They are typically only able to hold one or two cans. Cummin’s invention allows them to carry up to five cans of water, as well as make it easier to carry this water. This design uses tree tyre inner tubes. The bottom has a wheel made out of tree branches to create an easier way to transport. This invention is completely recyclable and uses pegs instead of glue. This invention has proven to be very successful and can be adapted to carry other materials and heavy loads. [10]

Cummin’s last invention is a toothpaste dispenser. Her idea sparked from her grandfather’s inability to squeeze toothpaste tubes due to experiencing arthritis. This dispenser allows the user to push instead of squeeze. There is an angled lever that can be pushed by any part of the body. When this is pressed, the device will squeeze the toothpaste tube from the top down. Not only does it allow for an easier way to squeeze toothpaste out of the tube, but it minimizes waste. This product can be used by people who have limited movement in their arm or have a prosthetic limb. [11]

2018 • 2018's Most Innovative in Sustainable Inventions - Business Elite Awards 2016 • Honorary Fellowship - Bradford College 2015 • AACSB - 100 Influential Leaders 2014 • Pioneer of the Purpose Economy 100 - Europe Winner 2012 • MADE Festival Change Maker 2011 • STEMNET Ambassador 2010 • Real Business’s top 30 entrepreneurs aged 30 or under • Yorkshire Young Achievers Award - Achievement in Management and Enterprise • Honouree for the Oslo Business for Peace Award • JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World Award • Red's Hot Women Awards - 20 Under 30 List 2009 • The Barclays Woman of the Year • The Shining World Inventor Award 2008 • Leeds University Enterprise Scholar • Cosmopolitan magazine's Ultimate Save-The-Planet Pioneer • Future 100 Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 • Appointed 'Women of Achievement Ambassador' • British Female Innovator of the Year • Diamond Award for Exceptional Creativity • Appointed 'Girls make your Mark Ambassador' 2006 • Merchant Adventurers' Award for Enterprise • Technology Women of the Future Award 2005 • Young Engineer for Britain Award for Most Benefit to the Community • Young Engineer for Britain Award for Most Innovative Solution for a Sustainable Environment • Audi Young Designer of the Year, Regional Winner and National Finalist • Ignite! Creative Spark Award [12]

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