With Online Games Against Incorrect Disposal: Separation Instead of Dating

Around 30 percent of the waste collected in the yellow bins and yellow bags used in Germany still does not belong there. These incorrect disposals make the recycling of empty packaging considerably more difficult and sometimes even impossible. Conversely, packaging that is incorrectly thrown into the residual waste is lost forever as recyclable material. The dual systems' "Waste separation works" initiative has therefore set itself the task of educating consumers about correct waste separation and recycling and motivating them to take part. The educational campaign runs via many different channels, for example on a website, via social media or waste separation campaigns in local communities. With the largest campaign of its kind ever seen in Germany, the initiative visited over 200 local authorities across the country in the first two weeks of June, for example, to educate people about correct waste separation and how it protects the climate. But the organisers didn't want to stop there.

Swiping as a Familiar Tool

Pfeffermind, an agency for digital game concepts and knowledge transfer, was brought on board for the professional development of the games. In order to reach the different target groups equally, their developers designed the games to have a low threshold and be easily accessible. The browser games are available on all end devices, free of charge and ad-free. They make use of familiar mechanisms, such as swiping in the case of "Trash Crush". To ensure that the games are also exciting for experienced players, the level of difficulty increases after an easy start. In addition, points are awarded for correct waste separation and deducted for mistakes – this is designed to invite those who like to compete to take part in challenges with friends or family.

The basic aim of the online games is to learn how to separate waste correctly: what belongs in the yellow bin, in the waste paper bin, in the glass container, in the organic waste bin or in the residual waste? Ultimately, the players should memorise the basic rules for correct waste separation: All empty packaging that is not made of paper, cardboard, carton or glass belongs in the yellow bin or yellow bag. Paper, cardboard and carton are collected in waste paper, deposit-free disposable glass packaging in glass containers. "The aim of the new series of games is to impart knowledge about correct waste separation in a fun and contemporary way," explains Subklew.

Fun and Entertainment Are Essential

Just as important to the developers as imparting knowledge was having fun while playing. "The challenge is that the educational content and the game character have to go hand in hand – without one of them taking over," emphasises the spokesperson. For example, the online games were designed so that users not only need knowledge about waste separation: Skill and speed are also required. "But that alone is not enough. To score points, you have to know which bin the waste belongs in," adds Subklew.

To keep players interested, the developers have placed great emphasis on the entertainment factor. In the first game "Trash Crush", for example, humour plays an important role. The implementation as a swipe game and waste that introduces itself to the player with witty sayings are reminiscent of dating apps tongue-in-cheek. This turns proper waste separation into entertaining fun. 

With its entertaining approach, the "Waste separation works" initiative is setting new standards in environmental education. By combining exciting online games, a wide range of information and practical teaching materials, the initiative succeeds in inspiring people of all ages to separate their waste correctly and raising their awareness in the long term. In this way, the initiative not only helps to reduce the amount of waste thrown into the yellow bins, but also raises awareness of environmentally conscious behaviour in society.