Solar-purified air street lamps that "breath" like plants
Do you think this is just a regular streetlight? Think again—it's actually an outdoor air purifier designed to clean the air while providing illumination.
With Beijing recently experiencing severe smog, public concern over air quality has risen. In response, Professor Qiu Song from the China Academy of Fine Arts has developed a unique streetlight that functions like a plant, absorbing pollutants and improving air quality in urban areas. This innovative design aims to address the growing issue of environmental pollution through smart, sustainable technology.
Environmental and lighting experts have acknowledged the potential of this idea. While they support the concept of targeted air purification, they also point out that challenges such as energy stability and cost control must be addressed before the system can be widely implemented.
The Design Concept: Clean Energy, Air Purification, and Lighting All in One
This morning, I had the chance to see a prototype of the new streetlight at the Industrial Design Department of the China Institute of Fine Arts. At first glance, it looks like any other streetlight, but its internal structure reveals a multi-functional system.
The lamp uses solar panels and wind turbines to generate power, allowing it to operate independently without relying on traditional electricity grids. This makes it ideal for placement in various locations without the need for extensive wiring. What really sets it apart is its built-in air purification system, which mimics the process of photosynthesis to clean the surrounding air.
Design Inspiration: From Indoor Purifiers to Outdoor Solutions
Professor Qiu explained that his inspiration came from everyday experiences. He previously designed an indoor air purifier and became increasingly concerned about the worsening air quality in Beijing. That led him to think about bringing air purification outdoors.
He noticed that traditional streetlights are often underutilized—only used for lighting. “Why not add an air-cleaning function?†he asked. By doing so, these streetlights could help reduce vehicle emissions and improve urban air quality.
This design was showcased at the Third International Art and Science Exhibition in November 2012, where it won recognition. Experts from the Ministry of Science and Technology and several companies showed great interest in the project.
Expert Opinions: A Creative Idea with Real Potential
Although still in the conceptual stage, Professor Qiu believes the integration of clean energy and air purification systems is fully feasible. Professor Zhang Pengyi from Tsinghua University’s School of Environment supports the idea, noting that outdoor pollutants differ from indoor ones—mainly particulate matter and nitrogen oxides from vehicles. Therefore, the purification device should be tailored accordingly.
Liu Shiping, vice chairman of the China Illuminating Engineering Society, also praised the concept but emphasized the need to solve technical issues such as energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. “Once the technology is refined and costs are managed, this could be a valuable addition to urban infrastructure,†he said.
Key Features of the New Streetlight:
- Membrane Structure Photovoltaic Panels: Two stretched surfaces offer a larger light acceptance angle and improved visual appeal.
- Vertical Wind Wheel: Capable of generating power from winds coming from any direction.
- LED Tube: Provides efficient lighting with less than half the power consumption of traditional lamps and a lifespan five times longer.
- Purification Device: Composed of two layers of chemical agents, with an ozone lamp in the middle for enhanced air cleaning.
- Air Holes: Located on the pole shaft, with suction devices at the bottom to draw in polluted air and release purified air from the top.
This innovative streetlight represents a bold step toward greener, smarter cities. With further development, it could become a key player in the fight against urban air pollution.
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