Footprints Without Borders: An Interactive Installation for Tangible Communication About Consumption-Based CO2 Emissions in an Exhibition Context

Abstract

Looking at consumption-based emissions is directly relevant to policy discussions. In order to develop effective climate strategies, climate policy needs to address the root causes, which requires an understanding of outsourced CO2 emissions. Using a design science research methodology process, an interactive installation was developed to communicate scientifically collected data in an exhibition environment. A three-dimensional and tangible world map allows to explore territorial emissions in contrast to cosumption-based emissions visually and haptically. Evaluation findings indicate that the exhibit supports different levels of understanding according to Bloom’s taxonomy. The developed design and interaction concept was evaluated in early user tests showing high pragmatic and very high hedonic qualities. Based on first results, the designed learning object offers an alternative approach to inform about outsourced emissions and to promote the discourse about effective climate strategies