Following the truly inspirational Anne Dickins MBE retell her journey to Paralympic Gold was always going to be a tough act to follow for Innovation Week’s next speaker Archie Wilkinson, Head of Pavegen Live.
For those of you who don’t know, Pavegen is the global leader in harvesting energy and data from footfall through the use of their clever, multifunctional custom flooring system. The simplicity and capabilities of the software have seen Pavegen work alongside huge brands to create really impactful and award-winning work. But, it’s their innovation and ambitious vision that’s gold medal exciting.
By 2050, it’s estimated there’ll be 10 billion people on the planet with 75% living in urban areas. It’s therefore imperative, as Archie discussed, that we look to new, smarter and more sustainable environments and resources. Pavegen’s dream is to create smart cities of the future, that are built on a foundation of smart data and an understanding of the Internet of beings. They want to change behaviours, allowing people to engage with clean energy whilst connecting purposefully with brands.
The Internet of Beings has three pillars; physical, digital and human. All three are instrumental in anything and everything, especially when generating value Archie explained. There are multiple start-ups developing amazing products to improve the environment and our awareness and interaction of the planet, through the use of technology in each three pillars. Like Liter of Light that uses waste plastic bottles to provide high-quality solar lighting to people who don’t have electricity. Or Good Bank in Berlin, the first vertical-farm-to-table-restaurant that grow vegetables and salad right in front of you! Mobike are the world’s first and largest smart bike share that have reduced vehicle traffic by 30% in China! Even Shell, who arguably is one of the biggest contributors to global warming, are starting to think differently and invest in a clean energy future.
Although smart cities might seem lightyears away, Pavegen is already beginning to make them a reality. With over 150 installations worldwide, including most recently, Washington DC’s Dupont Circle, it seems we’re finally starting to realise the potential of people power.
