Free Appropriate Sustainable Technology (FAST) Research Group

Welcome to the FAST research group, led by Professor Joshua Pearce, the Thompson Chair in Information Technology and Innovation at Western University’s Thompson Centre for Engineering Leadership & Innovation. Prof. Pearce has affiliations with Ivey Business School and the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, both part of Western University, a globally ranked institution. Western University is recognized for its sustainability efforts, ranking third worldwide for sustainability in Times Higher Education and Ivey Business School being notable among business schools for the same.

Contributions to Sustainability

FAST contributes to Western’s sustainability achievements, focusing on solar photovoltaic technology for sustainable power and open-source hardware for technological empowerment. The group actively engages in projects related to open-source appropriate technologies (OSAT) and distributed recycling and additive manufacturing (DRAM) through RepRap 3-D printing.

Alignment with Global Sustainability Goals

Western leads in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as evidenced by its top ranking in Canada and third globally in the 2022 Impact Rankings by Times Higher Education. FAST is integral to this effort, aligning with Western’s Strategic Plan and sustainability goals, contributing to Western’s responsible investment strategy and commitment to net zero emissions.