The report states that light-absorbing dust will become a common feature in future cities. Additionally, by splicing bioluminescent genes into tree trunks and branches, trees may also glow in the dark. The use of sprayable light-absorbing dust and luminescent trees will significantly reduce the demand for street lighting in large cities, thereby lowering carbon emissions and making the environment more eco-friendly. At the same time, it will improve safety in parks and streets.
According to reports, the UK company Pro-Teq has developed a product called Starpath. When sprayed on any solid surface, it can absorb sunlight during the day and emit a soft blue light at night. Arup stated in the research report: “Starpath can reduce the need for complex lighting facilities in parks and streets while enhancing nighttime safety. Another benefit is that it does not reflect light and has a relatively low intensity, so it does not increase light pollution.”
Currently, researchers have sprayed Starpath on a pathway in Christ's Pieces park in Cambridge, UK, to test its effectiveness.
