Pavegen’s perspective and vision for climate action
in smart cities and wider society.
24th June 2024
This week, London is once again at the forefront of the global fight against climate change. London Climate Action Week (LCAW) 2024 commenced on June 22nd, marking a pivotal moment in demonstrating the urgency and determination required for cities worldwide to take the lead in both climate action and sustainable urban development. As London showcases its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation, LCAW 2024 sets a powerful example of how cities can spearhead transformative initiatives, to support and foster a greener, more resilient future.
Our vision at Pavegen has always been to support and encourage green, sustainable urban environments. We believe that smart city technologies are key to engaging citizens and driving the necessary transformations to build sustainable cities. Our mission aligns closely with the themes of LCAW, as we leverage our kinetic energy solutions to empower communities and foster a culture of sustainable living.
Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Climate Action
Cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis, responsible for generating 80% of global GDP and over 70% of CO2 emissions (IIED) (London Climate Action Week). They are not just economic hubs but pivotal battlegrounds for climate action. More than half of the global population resides in urban areas, meaning cities must innovate to reduce emissions, enhance resilience, and foster sustainable lifestyles.
Urban centres around the world, like London, are confronted with unprecedented challenges in their efforts to combat climate change. The density of infrastructure, transportation systems, and industries in cities contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Managing and mitigating these emissions while ensuring sustainable development poses a complex challenge.
However, within these challenges lie opportunities for innovation. Cities are hubs of creativity, technology, and human capital, making them ideal environments for pioneering climate solutions. From renewable energy integration and green building initiatives to sustainable transportation, cities have the potential to lead the way in climate action.
What is the role of Smart City Technologies and Citizen Engagement?
Smart city technologies play a crucial role in advancing climate action and promoting sustainable urban development. These innovative technologies leverage data analytics, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to optimise resource use, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall efficiency in cities. By integrating smart grids, intelligent transportation systems, and sustainable infrastructure, smart city solutions help minimise environmental impact while improving quality of life for urban residents. Additionally, these technologies empower city authorities and citizens alike to make informed decisions that contribute to long-term sustainability goals, making cities more resilient and adaptive in the face of climate change challenges.
Public engagement is crucial for the success of these climate initiatives as it bridges the gap between policy implementation and community impact. When citizens actively participate in and support climate action efforts, they become stakeholders in the sustainable future of their cities. Engaged communities not only provide valuable feedback and ideas but also amplify the reach and effectiveness of initiatives through advocacy and collective action.
Introducing Pavegen.
At the forefront of smart city innovations and citizen engagement is Pavegen, a pioneering technology dedicated to creating sustainable urban environments through kinetic energy solutions. Our technology converts the kinetic energy from footsteps into electrical power and data, providing a tangible and interactive way for citizens to contribute to energy generation and sustainability efforts. Installed in high-footfall areas, these kinetic tiles not only generate clean energy but also serve as an educational tool, raising awareness about renewable energy and the impact of individual actions on the environment.
Pavegen’s installations are not only functional but also educational. They serve as interactive tools that raise awareness about energy consumption and the importance of renewable sources. For instance, our projects in public spaces, schools, and workplaces create visible and interactive experiences that connect individuals to the broader climate goals.
The London Model: A Blueprint for Global Action
London Climate Action Week has established a robust model for mobilising society around climate goals. This model emphasises the integration of diverse sectors, including professional bodies, educational institutions, and cultural organisations, in driving climate action (London Climate Action Week). Pavegen’s technology complements this model by providing a platform that bridges the gap between policy and practical action.
London Schools Climate Summit
One of the standout initiatives of LCAW is the London Schools Climate Summit, where students engage with climate education and participate in projects that highlight sustainable practices. Pavegen’s installations in schools have demonstrated how kinetic energy can be a powerful educational tool, inspiring the next generation to innovate and advocate for sustainability.
Cultural Engagement
Cultural institutions have a unique ability to influence public perception and behaviour. By partnering with museums, galleries, and theatres, we can create immersive experiences in community-centric spaces that highlight the importance of sustainability and climate action while providing interactive education at the same time.
What's next?
As we look ahead to LCAW 2024, Pavegen is excited to contribute to the dialogue and action surrounding urban climate innovation. Our technology is not just about energy efficiency; it’s about empowering people to participate in the climate solution. We invite cities, businesses, and communities to explore how Pavegen and other technologies can support their sustainability goals and engage citizens in meaningful ways.
For more information on our projects and how you can get involved, get in touch with us here!
Together, we can turn the tide on climate change, one step at a time. Let’s make London Climate Action Week 2024 a beacon of innovation and inspiration for the world.
For more information, video content and photos of Pavegen, contact press@pavegen.com
About Pavegen
Pavegen is a purpose-driven technology business that helps power change and generates positive outcomes for people and planet. Laying underfoot inside buildings, public spaces and at events, Pavegen Kinetic Paving harnesses the power of people’s footsteps, creating not only a small amount of energy – but also imaginative, interactive experiences and data, to help educate, engage and enable meaningful actions around sustainability and Net Zero intent. Pavegen calls this Citizen Impact; powered by Pavegen.
Pavegen helps power Kinetic Street Furniture applications such as USB charging, LED lights, and Green Wall irrigation systems, whilst data from the system can be used for public educational purposes on digital display screens. Kinetic Brand Experiences at live events, expos, festivals and public spaces produce data to provide gamified experiences that help brands engage meaningfully with consumers.
The company was founded in 2009 by Laurence Kemball-Cook who invented the Kinetic Paving technology that can now be seen in over 37 countries around the world.