Hello all! Firstly, I am pleased to report that my eco-bricks improvement project has come on in leaps and bounds since my last post. From just a few simple changes, we’ve found a winning formula (1:1:1 ratio of cement, to sand, to plastic) which was able to survive a four-foot drop test, and a spirited attack with a crowbar, with flying colours. The next stage will be a little more scientific, and will involve making a larger sample size of 10-15 bricks, and testing them under three-point bending - hopefully, I will be able to gather enough data to compare them to existing building materials.
Secondly, I’m finally back to diving; over the past week, I have been working towards my PADI Advanced Open Water qualification, and am now certified! Over the duration of the course, I feel I have made great strides in my safety and competence as a diver, becoming confident at depths up to thirty metres, diving from boats, in strong currents, and even at night! The more I dive, the more I am struck by the incredible diversity of live underwater, and the more I am resolved to protect it. Speaking of which, I am excited to finally get started on some biodiversity surveys and reef restoration this week, now that I am qualified at last!