One of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks, the Sears Tower, is set to receive an eco-friendly makeover. The skyscraper has already cut its energy usage in half, but plans are in the works to utilize clean sources of power to wipe out another 10% of its total energy usage.
At the Cityscape conference, Adrian Smith of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture indicated that the Sears Tower would receive wind turbines, photovoltaic cells, new lighting systems, a green roof and improved insulation.
Eco Skyscraper Makeovers
Sears Tower Gets Greener
Trend Themes
1. Eco-friendly Building Upgrades - Opportunities for disruptive innovation include incorporating renewable energy sources, advanced lighting systems, and green roofs into existing buildings.
2. Clean Energy Integration - There is potential for disruptive innovation in integrating wind turbines and photovoltaic cells into skyscrapers, reducing their reliance on traditional energy sources.
3. Energy Efficiency Enhancements - Innovations in insulation and energy-efficient technologies can help reduce the energy usage of buildings, presenting an opportunity for disruptive improvement in the industry.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry can explore innovative methods to retrofit existing buildings with eco-friendly features, promoting sustainable practices.
2. Renewable Energy - The renewable energy sector can provide clean energy solutions for skyscrapers through the installation of wind turbines and photovoltaic cells.
3. Building Materials - Improved insulation materials can revolutionize the building materials industry by enhancing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.