Overcoming Functional Fixedness: Repurposing The goal of repurposing is to find new uses for objects that would otherwise end up clogging waterways, littering sidewalks and roads, or accumulating in landfills. Using liter-sized water bottles and inexpensive solar-powered bulbs, Filipino architect Rodelon Ramos and Iliac Diaz developed a durable, cheap light fixture that can be used to light a home for as long as five hours. Successful repurposing involves finding new uses for familiar objects–the essence of overcoming functional fixedness.

AP Photo/Bullit Marquez