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The b-Shack is a highly innovative observational beehive and educational center.
PROJECT INFO:
The b-Shack is designed, fabricated and assembled by a diverse team of students in the Facility for Architectural Research in Media and Mediation (FARMM) at the McGill University School of Architecture. The project provides support to urban beekeeping communities in Montreal in collaboration with The McGill Apiary Association, Santropol Roulant and the McGill University Macdonald Campus. The b-Shack creates a venue for volunteers, educators and amateur beekeepers to share their knowledge and interest in apiculture with the public, and it provides a centralized forum for research initiatives focused on possible solutions for Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD).
CCD is the name associated with the mysterious death of large numbers of honeybee colonies. Honeybees play a critical role in our planet’s ecosystem, responsible for the pollination of many crops in food production worldwide. A decrease of 35% of bees in the past 3 years has had major effects on pollination, crops and the economy. There is currently no solution for preventing CCD.
The b-Shack project builds upon the growing interest in urban beekeeping by providing an educational and research tool to the apiculture community. It encourages outreach on sustainable methods of creating and living within our world, and it engages a diverse set of stakeholders in critical applied research focused on urban beekeeping.
For more details copy-paste the link bellow in your browser:
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*All t-shirts are American Apparel (poly-cotton fabric) and will be hand screen-printed by HalfLife. HalfLife is working to raise awareness about the growing homeless population in the United States while breaking down the stigmas associated with these individuals. 10% of each t-shirt will be donated to one of HalfLife’s partnering shelters. A portion of HalfLife’s manufacturing takes place within its mobile unit, offering the individuals at the shelters a first step toward full time employment. Residents who take part in the six month program acquire a working track record, references, job training, trade skill acquisition, insurance, etc. For more information please follow the link
Halflifeusa.com
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Q: What will we do with the money raised?
A: The goal we are asking for is enough to cover the estimated cost of materials, fabrication, assembly, and necessary expertise.
Q: When will construction begin?
A: We are currently working on a prototype model. As soon as we get financing to order the materials we will start fabricating the structural elements.
Q: When will construction end?
A: It should take a semester to complete the base and frame of the structure. We estimate that the shack will be finished by the end of April 2014. The summer of 2014 will be dedicated to the fabrication of the individual elements, such as planters, solar panels and sensors, which will be inserted into specific alcoves.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes we will ship to anywhere, but obviously shipping charges will differ from country to country. Please keep this in mind when pledging.
Q: When should I expect my perk?
A: We will start shipping your gifts as soon as the campaign is over. Most items offered are hand made and each will be one-of-a-kind. Bear with us - we will work hard to get the perks to you as soon as possible!
Q: Is there a way we can follow the B-Shack progress?
A: We have a website where you can keep up to date with advancements in the project, as well as a Facebook page with more information on the day-to-day progress.
If you would like to have other questions answered please send us an email at:
b-Shack@farmmresearch.com
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