Today we continued to explore the University of Twente and learn more about sustainability. We also went to the largest windmill farm in Holland and learned more about how windmills operate. 

We began our day with a lecture learning about windmills. I learned about two types of windmills, drag, and lift. Drag windmills are designed to capture lots of air to rotate. Conversely, lift windmills use airfoil shaped blades to create lift and spin the motor. After the lecture we had a sustainability focused tour around the University of Twente. We learned about various sustainable practices implemented such as solar panels, and water refilling stations. A very interesting sustainable practice is a large pool of water used to control the temperature in buildings. After the tour we visited the largest windmill farm in Holland.

At the windmill farm I learned a lot about how windmills are made and the pros and cons of using them. One thing I learned is that windmills often produce too much energy, which costs the company extra money to transport. I also learned how windmills are sustainable in many ways. Instead of using fossil fuels they use the energy from the wind to create electricity. The more natural energy is used the less competition for resources there will be. For example, if each region had their own natural energy production it would be less enticing to invade other countries to get their fossil fuels. This is sustainable as it would reduce the reason for wars. Lastly, we visited Elburg for a tour and dinner. During the tour we learned about the rich history of Elburg and after we enjoyed a nice dinner in the town.