Project Energizing Neighborhoods is a multifunctional public bench that could forever change the way you view bus stops. Bharat Bhargava's design essentially turns bus stops into miniature sustainable gyms, letting you cycle while you wait for the next bus. The energy created by your cycling is stored in the bench and is used to light the above lamp when the lights go down in the city.
Project Energizing Neighborhoods would do more than just provide eco-friendly energy to street lamps, it would also improve the health of millions of people worldwide and encourage people to switch to public transit. Riding the bus is a lot cheaper than driving, but there is almost no other incentive to ditch your car, unless of course you care about the environment. If Project Energizing Neighborhoods were put into play more people would want to ride the bus as bus stops would provide them with a free place to get a quick burn. You can check out the many variations of Bhargava's design here, along with many more designs that run solely off of pedal power.
Pedal-Powered Lampposts
Project Energizing Neighborhoods Encourages Bus Riders to Feel the Burn
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Public Furniture - Designing public furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a bench that generates energy from pedaling.
2. Green Transportation - Encouraging public transit by providing opportunities to exercise while waiting up for transportation.
3. Active Waiting - Incorporating physical activity into everyday waiting activities, like waiting for a bus or train.
Industry Implications
1. Smart City - Designing infrastructure that prioritizes energy efficiency and public health, such as eco-friendly streetlights that are powered by public transit users.
2. Urban Planning - Innovating public spaces by providing more eco-friendly furniture designs that encourage physical activity and public transit.
3. Alternative Energy - Developing eco-friendly solutions that utilize kinetic energy from various sources, including but not limited to public transit users, to power infrastructure and appliances.