With a quick internet search, I discovered there are over a hundred designs for making your own solar cooker. If you’ve never seen one of these in action, now is the time to get started. Simply, a solar cooker collects radiant energy from the sun to heat food or water. I admit, I don’t use mine nearly as often as I should; it isn’t as convenient as a gas or electric oven, but it saves me money every time I do.
Now consider this: worldwide, over two billion people cook over an open fire, contributing to deforestation, habitat loss, health risks associated with indoor smoke pollution, unwanted heat in the home, time spent gathering firewood, disproportionally affecting women and children. Additionally, because there is no fuel being burned, there is no fire risk. Solar cookers can reach temperatures of 400F and can be used to sterilize water, bake bread, or, my favorite, chili. They are, however, limited by the weather, daylight, sometimes longer cooking times, and different cooking techniques. So, while solar cookers can not replace fuel-based cooking entirely, they can be a huge supplement, alleviating many global economic, environmental, and health problems.
This project is a great introduction to solar energy. Capturing the sun's heat and using it directly is simpler and more efficient than converting it to electricity. We are all familiar with a hot car parked in the sun, even in winter, or hot water when the garden hose is first turned on. This principle is the science behind solar hot water heaters, solar air heaters, and passive-solar building design. It has been said that an advanced civilization will get all of its energy from the sun; so, let’s get started!
Materials required: Pizza box, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, black construction paper, razor knife, ruler, marker, glue stick or double sided tape, and a stick about 1 foot long.
Step 1: Order Pizza
Step 2: Measure and mark 1 1/2 inches around the top of the box and cut through three of them, making a flap. With adult help.
Step 3: Use glue or tape to line the inside of the box with black construction paper to absorb the sunlight.
Step 4: Line the inside of the flap with foil to reflect sunlight into the box.
Step 5: With the flap up, cover the opening with plastic wrap to seal in the air from escaping.
Step 6: Put s’mores on a dark colored plate
Step 7: Set box facing the sun with s’mores inside and flap propped open.
Step 8: Keep your eye on them until they are ready to eat! Maybe 30 min. to an hour.
Tip: Use an oven thermometer to monitor the temperature inside.
For more information on solar cooking and other projects, start with this link: http://journeytoforever.org/sc_link.html
Enjoy!
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