Plastic free planet
The purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of factual eco-feedback in comparison to simulated eco-feedback by developing a mobile-based app which helps support recycling and plastic waste reduction.
Project completed during UX Masters at IADT.
The plastic problem
Ireland produces the most plastic waste in the EU and it is estimated over 87,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste is incorrectly sorted for recycling annually.
Over the last decade, sustainable HCI has focussed on targeting and changing environmental behaviour. Eco-feedback is one of the methods used which gives an individual feedback about their behaviour and its impact on the environment. Most commonly used to track water, energy and fuel consumption.
There appears to be a lack of research into the application of eco-feedback techniques to promote better recycling habits or track the consumption of non-recyclables, such as plastic. The focus of this research was the evaluation of a mobile-based eco-feedback app which supports recycling and plastic waste reduction. Two types of eco-feedback visualisation were used in this study: factual (passive) and simulated (persuasive).
Primary and secondary personas
Methodology used
A user-centred approach was adopted for this study consisting of user research, ideation and testing. A set of goals were established after completing the user research phase:
− Help support recycling knowledge
− Provide easy to access information
− Help reduce plastic consumption
− Address plastic fatigue
Testing
Two rounds of design iterations were completed prior to the final test. Remote testing was conducted in a between-group study with 56 participants (18 moderated and 38 unmoderated). Fourteen post-test interviews were conducted.
Results
The results from statistical analysis showed there was no significant difference between factual and simulated eco-feedback groups concerning intent to use, attitude towards the technology, engagement or environmental motivation.
The thematic analysis of test interviews suggested a positive reaction to the idea and objective of an eco-feedback app when used to support recycling and plastic waste reduction. During post-test interviews, participants described the application as being supportive and informative 14 out of 14 participants said it would effect their behaviour in a positive way.
Positive feedback from testing
Further iteration
The eco-feedback screens received the most negative feedback during testing. The visual hierarchy and amount of information would require further design and testing.
Future work
There are few mobile applications which support recycling and plastic waste reduction. Primary research revealed a frustration with plastic pollution and confusion over recycling information. The design provided helpful information to support recycling and plastic waste reduction by following pro-environmental techniques.
The effectiveness of factual eco-feedback in comparison to simulated eco-feedback was not proven statistically however anecdotally the overall idea and purpose of the app was positively received. A longitudinal study would need to be completed in order to measure a reduction in plastic consumption and an improvement in recycling behaviour.