During my analysis of the life cycle of umbrella, I find that most of the energy was used in manufacturing and the follows are disposal, transportation and use. But other than these categories, there is one valuable element, water, is wasted. The rain drops from the sky. We did not catch/collect it, but let it flowed to drain. It is such a waste.

My design has a concave top that will let the rain flows through the gap of a cap to the middle tube (handle). The cap can be pushed open to let the water go through, close to prevent water flow out and turn to release the cap to pour out the water. There will be a system of collecting water in the city where most people will gather. This system is placing collectors, in most main buildings, to collect water for second use. One user may not collect much water, but if we all do it together, there will be a lot to be saved.

This umbrella will be made out of polyurethane, which is recyclable, non-toxic, lightweight, waterproof and it is being used in present. Moreover, it can be produced in variety of thickness. Therefore, my umbrella can be produced in lesser components: the frame with screen and the cap. This means it is easy to be disassembled for remanufacturing. It will be made by injection molding, which does not produce toxic waste and produce low cost products in mass production. Logos and instructions can be printed on it with non-toxic prints.

After its initial use, my umbrella can be used as a vase. In sunny day, user can place it on the floor as a ground vase and put some plants in it. User only needs to slightly open the umbrella for the frame to support its body. The advantage of this is the plants will reduce carbon dioxide level and produce oxygen. Consequently, we will have a fresher environment. Although its size is limited by its tube body that it cannot be folded, its good aspect, to collect water, will overcome this shortage.

At the end, this umbrella will be recalled by the manufacture to remanufacture it. Therefore, this umbrella will only be made in one or few colours for the manufacture to separate them to reuse its parts or recycle. Users can customize their umbrellas by scratching them or put on marks or ribbon, which is not permanent on it that will effect its recycling.
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