This blog post explores the potential of human body energy and its applications, examining its potential as a sustainable future energy source.
What is human power? Before discussing human power, we must first examine the drawbacks of mechanical power deeply embedded in our lives. Modern humans enjoy abundant and convenient lives thanks to mechanical power. However, a lifestyle overly dependent on machines has led to a lack of exercise and, consequently, an increase in the obese population. Considering that many exercise facilities, created to address obesity issues, also rely on mechanical power, we need to rethink this very structure of life.
On the other hand, power harnessed from human physical energy has already permeated daily life in various ways, proving both eco-friendly and effective. For example, South Africa’s ‘Play Pump’ demonstrates a device that pumps water through play, while ‘power generation floors’ are installed on the stairs of Tokyo subway stations and in London nightclubs. Beyond these, there are actual examples of cars, boats, and airplanes powered by human strength.
Human power offers several advantages. Human living spaces are broadly divided into public and private domains. The public domain refers to open spaces where people gather, while the private domain signifies closed spaces for solitary use. The automobile, used by most people, is a prime example of the private domain. Drivers experience stress from constant tension, traffic congestion, and the pressure of enclosed spaces. Prolonged exposure to this state is known to negatively impact heart health. In contrast, bicycles, used in the public sphere, provide psychological stability and reduce unnecessary financial and time expenditures like car washes or fueling. The Alenax bicycle, a two-seater that maximizes these advantages, reduces the effort required by one person while simultaneously offering the enjoyable experience of socializing with others.
Interestingly, human power has been deeply involved in human life for a long time, like the fire carts of the ancient Roman autonomous fire brigade ‘Vigiles’ or Vietnam’s ‘cyclo’. However, over time, human power gradually faded away. This goes beyond mere efficiency issues; it stems from a shift in our perception as consumerism deepened. While human power often surpasses mechanical power in efficiency and eco-friendliness, modern people relentlessly pursue comfort even in minor aspects and never cease consumption. Furthermore, while most people answer “impossible” to the question “Can humans fly using their own strength?”, the fact that a self-powered aircraft succeeded in flight 40 years ago shows we underestimate the potential of human power.
Ultimately, human power is humanity’s most enduring asset and arguably the most sustainable alternative energy source for the future. Fossil fuels will eventually deplete, increasing their value before ultimately disappearing. When this low-energy society arrives, communities will shrink to local scales, and lifestyles will be reorganized around reducing chemicals and prioritizing human power.
