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Which major city is the latest to test power-generating pavement?

Answer: London

According to the BBC, London has joined the likes of Las Vegas in testing its version of the “smart street,” which is meant to generate electricity from foot traffic. The general idea behind the pedestrian-driven technology is that downward pressure from footsteps actuates small electromagnetic generators beneath the tiles. The clean energy is immediately sent to power nearby lighting and other environmental features.

The media outlet also reported a number of innovative and environmentally conscious ideas are at work on London’s Bird Street, including air-cleaning paint and park benches. Though officials told the BBC they don’t believe the technology is going to fix all of the city’s air pollution problems, it could be a step in the right direction if deployed at a large enough scale.

Eyragon Eidam is the web editor for Government Technology magazine, after previously serving as assistant news editor and covering such topics as legislation, social media and public safety. He can be reached at eeidam@erepublic.com.