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Showcase 2021 Student Spotlight: Chris Barnes

Student Spotlight featuring BA Product Design student, Chris Barnes, and his project, The Guaro breathalyser.

Chris Barnes

The Guaro breathalyser by Chris Barnes

BA (Hons) Product Design

By drinking and driving you immediately pose a threat to the safety of yourself, your passengers, other drivers and pedestrians. The consequences could last a lifetime.

Even though personal breathalysers are available, there is a low level of consumer adoption despite the clear benefits of owning one. Lack of awareness of the solutions available coupled with the perceived embarrassment of using a breathalyser in public and the negative connotations associated with it exacerbate the issue.

  • 60 young drivers aged 17-24 are killed or injured each month in the UK while found to be over the legal alcohol limit.
  • Every year, around 85,000 people are convicted of drink-driving. Getting caught may get you; 6 months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a 12-month driving ban.

Chris Barnes

Guaro (Gw-ar-o) is a breathalyser that has been designed for social environments, encouraging people to behave more responsibly when it comes to drink-driving. Whether that be in the home, for social gatherings such as dinner parties or public spaces like bars and restaurants.

The design of Guaro removes the uncomfortable, authoritative experience of using a breathalyser and creates a more acceptable, friendly and social activity. This approach encourages the user to consider their actions and make the right decision.

Find out more about Chris and watch his promotional video for the Guaro Breathalyser.

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