Tell us a little bit about NSF International and your on-site activation at Maker Faire Detroit this year.
NSF International has been testing and certifying products for safety, health and the environment for nearly 70 years. As an independent, public health and safety organization, NSF is committed to protecting and improving human health on a global scale. NSF International protects families by testing and certifying thousands of consumer goods each year, including kitchen products and appliances, personal care products, dietary and sport supplements, bottled water, pool and spa equipment, water treatment systems, plumbing fixtures and many other products used in homes every day. Look for the NSF mark on products you purchase.
NSF International microbiologists, chemists, toxicologists and engineers will lead hands-on laboratory experiments with the goal to get kids interested in science as well as emphasize the importance of protecting public health and the environment. NSF demonstrations will explore polymers, an important building block used by chemists. Kids will be able to help make nylon string, see and then touch polymer foam and elephant toothpaste being made using dish soap, yeast and hydrogen peroxide. Other experiments will focus on sustainable and compostable products.
What was the inspiration for your activation?
We plan to demonstrate how science can be fun with summer science experiments and highlight how NSF International helps protect public health and the environment!
How do you think NSF International embodies the making spirit?
NSF International’s Ann Arbor headquarters houses unique and innovative custom labs, including the largest drinking water treatment lab in the world, and NSF’s Applied Research Center, which performs original scientific research and contract testing for universities, government and the private sector geared towards protecting public health.
What are you most looking forward to at Maker Faire Detroit this year?
At NSF International, we work in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) every day and we are very excited to share our passion for the sciences and public health. We are looking forward to conducting science experiments with kids, and to encourage them to be more involved in STEM.
