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Wind energy now generates 10.2% of US electricity. However, 6,000 blades are expected to be decommissioned annually, leading to an estimated 4 million tons of decommissioned wind turbine blades (DWTBs) waste by 2050, posing a significant challenge in the energy transition. Additionally, due to severe weather, high wind speeds, and rising sea levels, coastal regions suffer from erosion of beaches and land, corroded structures, damaged or destroyed properties, and consequential negative mental and health impacts on residents. Leveraging our encouraging preliminary findings and taking advantage of the durability and anti-corrosion properties of DWTBs, we will repurpose these recycled blades to build innovative coastal structures such as sea walls, support columns for coastal piers and elevated houses, and pipe culverts, among others, to better protect coastal properties and achieve community resilience. Additionally, DWTBs will be used to build green space structures such as pavilions, sculptures, and canopies. The green space, along with the community resilience, will positively impact residents’ mental and physical health. The project is carried out by a multidisciplinary team of highly qualified investigators from five universities. Eight municipalities have agreed to build either coastal structures, green space structures, or both on their land. Seven independent school districts and three community colleges have agreed to integrate sustainability and resilience into their teaching with hands-on practice. With extensive community-centered partnership, this project simultaneously addresses the three challenges in energy transition, coastal environment change, and community resilience and health by innovatively repurposing DWTBs.
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