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Radar and motion sensors: Pioneering intelligent outdoor and urban infrastructure By Minx Avrabos A s cities and outdoor environments through certain obstacles, making it ideal for complex urban environments. PIR sensors, by contrast, detect changes in infrared
evolve towards smarter, more sustainable systems, integrating radar-based and passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors is becoming a cornerstone of intelligent infrastructure. Lighting companies are beginning to offer advanced solutions that cut energy waste and enable dynamic responses to movement, fundamentally changing how urban and outdoor spaces operate. infrastructure systems often run on fixed schedules or simple dusk-to-dawn controls, wasting significant energy during periods of low activity. As urbanisation rises and the need for energy efficiency grows, cities are seeking technologies that precisely match energy use to real-time demand. The need for intelligent sensing Traditional outdoor lighting and Radar and PIR motion sensors: How they work Radar sensors emit radio waves and analyse the reflected signals to detect movement and even measure objects’ speed and direction. Unlike basic motion detectors, radar can sense motion over longer distances and
radiation emitted by warm objects, such as people or vehicles. When combined, these technologies provide robust, reliable motion detection across a range of scenarios, from pedestrian walkways to high-traffic roadways. One of the primary benefits of intelligent motion sensors is their ability to enable infrastructure to respond dynamically to real-time conditions. For example, streetlights equipped with radar and PIR modules can remain dim or off during periods of inactivity and instantly brighten when motion is detected. This approach ensures energy is used only when necessary, dramatically reducing electricity consumption and associated costs. Dynamic response and energy efficiency Broader applications and urban benefits Beyond lighting, cities are integrating radar and PIR sensors into traffic management, security systems, and environmental their lifecycle are collected, broken down, and reused to create new items. Such circularity is essential for achieving long- term environmental goals and aligning with global sustainability frameworks. 3D printing: Customisation with minimal waste Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is revolutionising how fixtures and components are designed and produced. Traditional manufacturing methods often create significant material waste from cutting, milling, and overproduction. In contrast, 3D printing builds products layer by layer, using only the material required for the final design. This process not only slashes waste but also enables rapid prototyping and customisation. For the lighting industry, this means bespoke luminaires and fittings can be created to exact specifications, supporting unique projects while upholding eco-friendly principles. IESSA’s promotion of 3D-printed solutions is helping members reduce waste, lower costs, and accelerate time-to-market—all while minimising environmental impact.
As urbanisation rises and the need for energy efficiency grows, cities are seeking technologies that precisely match energy use to real-time demand.
monitoring. Intelligent traffic signals, for instance, can prioritise pedestrian crossings or adapt to real-time vehicle flow, further enhancing urban mobility while minimising energy use.
becomes increasingly connected and data-driven, radar and PIR motion sensors play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable, intelligent cities. By cutting energy waste and enabling responsive, adaptive environments, these advanced sensing technologies are lighting the way to a smarter urban future. impact. As these trends gain momentum, eco-friendly manufacturing will not only become standard practice but also catalyse broader industry transformation.
Conclusion As outdoor and urban infrastructure
Eco-friendly lighting manufacturing A s global focus on sustainability intensifies, manufacturers face mounting pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. The Illumination Engineering Society of South Africa (IESSA) has highlighted several
Lighting-as-a-Service: Performance over ownership The Lighting-as-a-Service (LaaS) model exemplifies the shift from product ownership to service-based solutions. Instead of purchasing and maintaining lighting systems outright, customers partner with providers who install, operate, and upgrade fixtures as needed. This model incentivises manufacturers to deliver high-performance, energy-efficient solutions that are regularly updated for optimal efficiency. LaaS also simplifies integrating recyclable, modular components because providers retain responsibility for end-of-life management. IESSA advocates LaaS to drive continuous sustainability improvements, reduce energy consumption, and streamline compliance with evolving environmental regulations. A greener industry future By embracing recyclable materials, 3D-printed low-waste custom fixtures, and Lighting-as-a-Service models, the manufacturing sector is charting a path toward a greener future. IESSA’s leadership and guidance are instrumental in driving these changes, helping both manufacturers and end-users benefit from cost savings, innovation, and reduced environmental
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DECEMBER 2026 FEATURES
transformative trends shaping the future of green manufacturing. These include recyclable materials, 3D-printed, low- waste custom fixtures, and innovative Lighting-as-a-Service (LaaS) performance models, all of which are redefining industry standards. Recyclable materials: Closing the loop One of manufacturing’s most impactful shifts is the widespread adoption of recyclable materials. Companies are moving away from single-use plastics and non-renewable resources, opting instead for materials like recycled aluminium, glass, and biodegradable polymers. This conserves natural resources while reducing landfill waste and production- related carbon emissions. IESSA members are at the forefront, implementing closed- loop systems where products at the end of
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Editor: Minx Avrabos sparks@crown.co.za Advertising: Carin Hannay 072 142 5330 carinh@crown.co.za Design: Ano Shumba Publisher: Wilhelm du Plessis Published monthly by: Crown Publications (Pty) Ltd P O Box 140
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This publication is distributed to electrical contractors, wholesalers, distributors, OEMs, panel builders, Eskom, mining electricians and consulting engineers (electrical) as well as libraries, members of IESSA and public utilities.
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NOVEMBER 2026
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