Augmented Reality as Municipal Communication Tool

Abstract

Addressing climate adaptation is one of Rotterdam’s critical challenges as it seeks to achieve a fully circular economy by 2050. However, language barriers and limited literacy levels, particularly in neighbourhoods like Carnisse, prevent many residents from engaging in the city’s climate initiatives. This thesis explores the potential of Augmented Reality (AR) as an innovative tool to bridge these communication gaps, making complex Circular Economy (CE) principles more accessible by increasing engagement, comprehension and making the experiences more memorable for residents with lower levels of literacy.

Using the Delft Innovation Method (DIM), this design research iteratively develops and tests two AR prototypes to assess AR’s effectiveness in increasing comprehension, engagement, and retention among residents of Carnisse. Apart from the DIM, a mixed-method approach was utilised, including literature reviews, stakeholder interviews and observations. The first prototype translates a municipal website that explains CE-principles into an AR experience, and thus aims to establish whether the technology is suitable for use in Carnisse. The second prototype, The Digital Sustainability Tour, leverages learned lessons from the previous prototype to improve, and expands the scope and generalises the findings to another neighbourhood with a similar profile.

Results from A/B testing and community feedback suggest that AR has the potential to enhance user engagement and understanding compared to traditional text-based methods. Based on these findings, this thesis proposes three strategies that align with municipal goals and capabilities, in which AR can be leveraged effectively to: Improve Communication via Inform & Remember, Increase Participation via Analyse & Apply and lastly enhance self-efficacy via Evaluate & Co-Create. These strategies aim to foster a more inclusive dialogue and empower inhabitant to participate in sustainability efforts.