Increased connectivity
One interesting thing caught my eye a couple of years ago and I recently remembered it again.
Solar-freaking-roadways.
No, seriously, that’s the name of the thing. So basically what this is, is a revolution in roads. Instead of using the regular asphalt that is all cost and no gain, these people invented these interactive hexagons that stack together to make roads and sidewalks. Each of the hexagons is equipped with LED lights and some kind of micro processing capabilities, and are easily replaced if they malfunction. The coolest thing about them is that because they are all connected to a grid, the road basically becomes a computer screen. This way, you can put up signs, markings, parking space lines, handicapped logos, all with the touch of a button. And to change any markings, you don’t need a special person to show up with a paint brush. You simply do it online.
The best part? They’re solar-freaking-roadways, which means that they get their energy from the sun - meaning they are self-sufficient! And they keep a certain temperature going, meaning that snow doesn’t stick to them - it just melts! And they’re made entirely from recycled stuff like broken glass! And if a country turns all its roads into solar roads, they don’t need any other means of producing energy! And if a moose or something wanders onto the road ahead, the road warns you! What! That sounds way too good to be true!
Well, according to some people, it is.
This Negative Nancy throws math at the situation, citing this whole thing is impossible and a complete sham. I’ve never seen eye to eye with math so I’m not going to pick sides, but if he’s right, then that’s bad news. A self sustaining, digital, energy-creating road is an amazing idea!