Contributing to the generation of electricity in a town or city is a worthy endeavor for anyone. But imagine being able to do so with just a few steps.
A town in the United Kingdom has been lauded for installing a high-tech “bouncy” pavement that generates electricity when people walk on it.
You Can Charge Your Devices
According to reports, Telford and Wrekin Council has installed a six-metre stretch of smart pavement that easily converts people’s footsteps into electricity that can charge mobile phones and other devices.
Walking or running on the smart pavement generates enough electricity to power up charging points next to benches in Telford, Shropshire. Pedestrians can also check the amount of energy they are generating on a solar-powered screen installed between Telford Central train station and the town centre.
The pavement launched in October is very similar to projects in Dubai, Milan, and Hong Kong. The walkway is made up of rubber and stainless steel tiles. Its electromagnetic generator, however, produces 2.1 watts of electricity per hour.
A Fun Way to Continue the Climate Conversation
The smart pavement is part of a £4 million council project to fund climate change plans. The initiative has been praised by locals, but many have dismissed it as an “expensive gimmick.” Carolyn Healy defended the impersonation, calling it a “fun way to keep the climate conversation going.” “We understand that people’s lives are busy right now,” she said, “but it would be a huge step backward if climate action fell off the radar, which is why awareness projects like this are so important.” “This pavement is a fun way to continue the climate conversation and prompt people to consider how they can help our borough become more sustainable,” she added.
