Pioneering experiments to decarbonise local highway network include glowing footprints of giant bird as alternative to street lighting
A startling sight can now be seen on cycle paths in Everton Park – the glowing footprints of a giant bird! But this isn’t a prank – or the sign of some kind of invasion by nature. Instead, it’s part of an experiment to test some cutting-edge tech.
Examples of the Live Labs ‘giant bird’ footprints at Everton Park, photo courtesy of Liverpool City Council
The footprints are just one of a range of smart road and highway technologies being applied to the city’s roads, pedestrian crossings and cycle paths, as part of Liverpool City Council’s pioneering efforts to decarbonise its highway network.
In this case, the footprints have been applied with new, luminescent LuminoKrom paint. This absorbs natural light during the day and can absorb artificial light as well. It then glows in the dark for 10 hours. The result is lit cycle paths with no power supply or corresponding CO2 emissions.
The application of paint in this particular experiment is expected to save up to two tonnes in equivalent CO2 emissions compared to traditional street lighting, reducing emissions by a substantial 46%.
It’s also a fun way to engage local residents and road users, who can puzzle over what kind of giant bird may have left the footprints – all part of raising interest and awareness in the wider initiative.
Painted footprints will also be applied to other sites taking part in this month’s Live Labs 2 Expo in Liverpool, which aims to demonstrate how technology can make roads safer and more environmentally friendly. Liverpool City Council is a leading partner in ADEPT Live Labs 2, the Department for Transport’s £30m, three-year and UK-wide programme to decarbonise local roads.
Other experiments being undertaken across the city include a Flowell traffic sign that lights up if drivers exceed the 20 mph speed limit. An interactive pedestrian crossing with light-up panels is also being trialled.
Officers from Liverpool City Council will evaluate the success of these various experiments in helping to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, alleviate congestion and create more sustainable neighbourhoods. They will then assess the potential for wider rollout.
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