The term technology transfer, when used in regards to sustainability and appropriate technology, is often considered to mean a transfer from the northern hemisphere to the southern hemisphere. But developed nations can learn valuable lessons from technologies developed in the majority world which may use less resources and have a lower impact on the environment. These are important factors for a part of the world that has a greater per capita effect on the global environment.
Examples
The asthma inhaler spacers are an example of this type of transfer. Dr. Zahr, a physician in South Africa, is responsible for much of the research showing that this simple device can effectively replace the more expensive and less available commercial product. Bottle spacers are now being developed and produced by people working for a community health center in the United States.
Oral rehydration therapy was developed in Bangladesh.
Many traditional techniques for building (such as adobe) are being newly appreciated due to their energy efficiency.
Appropedia and South to North knowledge transfer
It is hoped that this transfer will occur more through Appropedia, with for example GEM mosquito control from India (which uses no pesticides) and a home biogas system from the Philippines. This includes both technology transfer and more general knowledge transfer
External Links
Leapfrogging in Reverse Jeremy Faludi July 30, 2005 12:50 AM A blog posting on South to North transfer followed by discussion and debate.
Steve.mccrosky 17:13, 28 October 2007 (PDT)