Bicycle paths at the heart of ecology
Ecological alternatives for the lighting of bicycle paths
In the fight against climate change and its catastrophic effects such as fires in Australia, which have killed thousands of species, the resurgence of locusts in the African basin or global warming (18 degrees in Antarctica) causing the melting of glaciers: this has led governments around the world to pay particular attention to environmental protection.
One of the measures that is gradually developing is the lighting of bicycle paths with innovative and ecological methods: they take advantage of solar energy during the day and then, release it at night in the form of light.
There are currently two techniques to achieve these results: photoluminescent paint and LED stones.
Photoluminescent paint for soft mobility users.
Photoluminescent paint can be used in different areas: bicycle paths, greenways, pedestrian walkways, rest areas, outdoor parking lots. It recharges in daylight and lights up at nightfall without any electrical energy input, thus reducing artificial light pollution. It is able to restore this luminosity for more than ten hours, then give off a residual light greater than 5 mcd/lux/m², making it perceptible to the human eye until daybreak.
Its natural photoluminescent properties guide users safely through hazardous and unlit areas. It is a real ecological alternative!
Here are some examples of bicycle paths made with VENUS® photoluminescent paint:
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VENUS®, the photoluminescent paint by ISOSIGN.
Extracted from a natural mineral, its green pigment guarantees durability and intensity
LED stones
This is a phosphorescent material that accumulates light energy during the day and gives off it later when it stops receiving it and the electrons return to their resting state.
Thus, after a full day of receiving solar radiation, the path will give off light for more than ten hours, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to ride at night without using or depending on artificial lighting. The path will be recharged with energy the next day. The lights can be designed to give off light in any color.
Foto by Studio Roosegaarde via Flickr
As a good example of the implementation of this technique the city of Lidzbark Warmiński, in the region of Masuria in northern Poland, implemented in 2016 a bike path that glows in blue color, at night, through the use of a luminescent substance.
Furthermore, in the Netherlands, a bike path was created in 2016: it is part of a cultural route that crosses important places in the life of the painter Vincent Van Gogh, so that the lights on the sidewalk form waves reminiscent of the "Starry Night," one of the painter's most famous works, combining, in this way, sustainable mobility and energy efficiency.
Picture credit : Instagram @Luis88oliveira
SOLONATURE, the range designed for bicycle paths!
The bicycle has become the star of the first deconfliction! The COVID-19 has accelerated the learning curve of many actors, especially local and territorial authorities. They are now supporting the development of cycling in their areas, especially for short trips.
SOLOSAR designs products specifically for bike paths and footpaths. We support you in all your projects to make roads less dangerous.
A well-conducted project is thought out in advance, and calling on experts in the field of road design will guarantee its success.
Because for us, your project is unique, the SOLOSAR team is at your disposal to visit your site and to think with you, according to the technical and budgetary constraints, about the optimization of your future bicycle path.
SOLOBOIS 2.2 - ROMA fence- Railing S103
Our products are made of mixed wood/metal for increased durability. They are certified class 4 according to EN335 and guaranteed 10 years!
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