Dunk and Egg
Japan is redefining renewable energy by transforming the simple act of walking into a viable power source. In high-traffic corridors like Shibuya Station, specialized piezoelectric tiles are embedded into the flooring to capture kinetic energy. When a pedestrian steps on a tile, the pressure creates mechanical stress that is instantly converted into electrical energy via piezoelectric materials.
While a single footstep generates a modest charge, the scale of Tokyo's commutes-totaling over 2.4 million steps daily in key areas-creates a significant cumulative output. This harvested electricity is utilized to power local LED lighting, digital signage, and environmental sensors, creating a self-sustaining urban micro-grid. This technology represents a critical shift toward sustainable infrastructure, reducing the carbon footprint of public spaces without requiring lifestyle changes from citizens. By integrating high-tech engineering into the literal foundation of the city, Japan continues to lead the global transition toward innovative, eco-friendly energy solutions.
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