Features
Biodiversity study points the way to more durable green roofs
Using living organisms such as bacteria or fungi as an alternative to chemical fertilisers can improve the soil biodiversity of green roofs, according to new research from the University of Portsmouth.
Green roofs are covered with plants and vegetation and are increasingly used in cities to make buildings more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Solar roads: powering up the highway
A new system designed by Colas aims to generate electricity from solar photovoltaic panels embedded in the road surface. It might sound like science fiction, but the Wattway system is currently being tested in France and the USA, and is the result of five years’ research by the international infrastructure company and the French National Institute for Solar Energy. The company estimates 20m² of Wattway panels could provide enough electricity to power a single home. If the system proves successful, it could open up a previously untapped source of renewable energy.
Jamie Hailstone spoke to Philippe Harelle, chief technology officer at Colas SA’s Wattway unit, to find out more.
In a nutshell, how does the Wattway system work?
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