Eco-visualization: an exploration of the concept and its practical implications

Panel: 4. Mobility, transport, and smart and sustainable cities

This is a peer-reviewed paper.

Authors:
Erica Löfström, NTNU Department of Psychology, Norway
Dag Svanæs, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway

Abstract

Behavior and attitude changes are needed both at the individual, and the societal level. The changes are necessary to reach the global and local goals of more sustainable resource use. Eco-visualizations may potentially contribute towards more sustainable resource use. It has previously been defined as ”the dynamic means of revealing the consequences of resource use, in order to promote sustainable behavior, attitudes and decision making”. Based on own research, a number of criteria are relevant for eco-visualizations to contribute successfully to more sustainable resource use at individual and societal level. The prevalent definition is used as a discussion starting point, and the paper argues for a new definition of the concept. The paper uses four actual eco-visualization techniques – all are prototypes of different functionality level – to discuss and exemplify which criteria are important in relation to eco-visualizations. For instance, it is an advantage if the eco-visualizations are developed as part of a user-centered and iterative approach. In addition, resource use visualization alone is not sufficient to create behavior and attitude change, as the resource use in question should also be related (put into a systemic context) to surrounding system, such as for instance a smart grid.

Eco-visualization positions itself at the forefront of research by utilizing nouvel technologies. Hence, continuous development and change is part of it. In addition it tends to position itself in on the border between art and technology. Its inherent ambition may be to partake in shaping the future and to influence decision making processes at both personal and societal levels. Based on these aspects, the following and perhaps more ambitious definition of eco-visualization is suggested: Communicating (Eco-) system interdependencies with the intent of achieving awareness, flexibility and (societal) debate.

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