Scientists Use Gaming to Tackle Plastic Waste and Protect Public Health

Scientists from the University of Portsmouth’s Revolution Plastics Institute are using gaming to reshape public attitudes toward plastic waste. In collaboration with leading game developer Rebellion, the team is developing an interactive computer game designed to educate players on waste management, emphasizing reduction and reuse over recycling (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Game On: New computer game aims to tackle plastic pollution

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Game-Changer in Plastic Waste Education

With plastic pollution reaching crisis levels, traditional awareness campaigns often struggle to influence behavior. Professor Steve Fletcher, Director of the Revolution Plastics Institute, believes gaming offers a more engaging and effective solution:

"Games are an incredibly powerful tool for education and engagement. This project is about using cutting-edge digital innovation to reach people in a way that sticks."

The game, set for release in January 2026, will undergo extensive testing, including trials in experimental economics labs and large-scale user testing across diverse demographics.

Plastic Pollution and Its Impact on Public Health

Beyond environmental damage, plastic pollution poses severe health risks. Microplastics have been found in food, water, and even human organs, potentially leading to:

• Endocrine disruption, affecting hormone regulation
• Respiratory issues from plastic particles in the air
• Increased cancer risk from toxic chemicals in plastics
• Neurological disorders linked to prolonged exposure

By educating players about the waste hierarchy and promoting sustainable habits, the game could help reduce plastic exposure and lower health risks associated with plastic pollution.

The project, supported by the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF), brings together academia and industry. Researchers from the University of Surrey and University of Bath will also contribute, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach.

Reference:

1. Game On: New computer game aims to tackle plastic pollution - (https://www.port.ac.uk/news-events-and-blogs/news/game-on-new-computer-game-aims-to-tackle-plastic-pollution)

Source-University of Portsmouth