Designed by Lea Lorenz in Germany, the electricity-free cooler named ‘Tony’ offers an alternative to refrigerators we commonly use. Inspired by centuries-old traditions of using clay pots for storing fruits and vegetables, Tony is a portable refrigerator and food container. The system operates based on the principle of evaporative cooling, comprising clay-made containers, a water-filled reservoir, and lid sections.

The porous raku clay absorbs water from the reservoir, leading to evaporation on the walls of the food container. This process effectively cools the interior of the system to a temperature range between 13°C to 17°C. This specific range provides ideal storage conditions for fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, which are sensitive to extreme cold and might lose their quality in traditional refrigerators.

This design offers a sustainable solution by preventing food waste and ensuring energy efficiency.