Lipo-Electricity

Lipo-Electricity

    America is in its worst economic downfall in recent years, with billions being spent on bailouts and wars a new financial source is needed. This financial crisis is putting hardships on families with low incomes as they are forced to consume the more affordable fatty foods. As the population’s pockets are getting smaller their bodies are getting consequently larger.

   Fast food chains and a trend toward sedentary activities (Watching TV, Computer use) is a major contributor to the obesity epidemic. A large amount of money is being spent on medical expenses related to these plump, lazy people. “According to the National Institute of Health, $75-$125 billion is spent on indirect and direct costs due to obesity-related diseases.” This money could be spent to help the economy get back on its feet.

   While lying awake one night, I could not help but to get distracted by my pet hamster running on its wheel.  There it was, a solution! I have found a way to offset both crises at once. Instead of hydro-electricity, I propose the USA should introduce lipo-electricity. A widely accessible electrical energy produced by the obese running on human sized wheels.

    A hamster running on a wheel can produce enough energy to keep a 2-3 watt LED light lit.  More than one third of the United States’ population is said to be obese.  As of 2011, the US has over 300 million people. This means at least 100 million people are obese. Assuming their poor physical shape, the average obese individual can probably run for 2 minutes before losing consciousness or collapsing. This could potentially produce 30-40 watts constantly (conservatory). If there is a five-shift schedule, 20 million people a shift, this power could be produced continuously and sold for profit.  Other countries could purchase this lipo-electricity or produce their own. This option would capitalize on the United States greatest nature resource, obesity.

    Eventually, the workers will become fit and be able to produce more energy.Thus, gaining more profit. With an increase to overall health of the population, medical expenses would greatly decrease. This medical savings along with the lipo-electricity profits could be spent to stimulate the economy.

Sources: WHO website/ wikipedia