How sustainability and technology is shaping the urban environment and the street furniture within it
How sustainability and technology is shaping the urban environment and the street furniture within it
Around 72% of the EU population lives in urban areas (1). Cities and towns throughout Europe are evolving and growing at an incredible rate. As a result, a new and more developed model of sustainability is required. One which saves energy, protects the environment and increases citizens’ wellbeing.
So how are new sustainable policies going to shape the urban environment of the future? And how will these influence street furniture design and application?
Experts believe one of the biggest impacts on street furniture as part of such sustainability transformations, is the adoption of technology. This involves revolutionising street furniture away from a single purpose to a multi-purpose entity. For example, a street bin will not only function as a bin but also as an audio reference point for partially sighted people, a WiFi hub spot and even has the functionality to let the operators know when it is reaching full capacity.
The future of street furniture
Street furniture plays a crucial role in towns and cities, to provide residents with a sense of wellbeing and fulfilment. To support community wellbeing, city planners and landscape architects are ever evolving the role of digital technology within their street furniture designs. For example, the rapid adoption of smart phones will result in users being able to interact with various street furniture structures.
Councils and city planners’ objectives to improve sustainability also involve improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Cycling schemes are a popular addition to many towns and cities across the world, particularly as urban spaces are being designed more for pedestrians rather than motor vehicles.
Street Furniture Direct is part of the Bailey Street Furniture Group.
For more information on the Bailey Street Furniture Group please contact the team on 01625 322888, email enquiries@bsfg.co.uk or visit www.bsfg.co.uk