Treedome: A disruptive solution to planting more trees
Role
UX/UI Designer
Industry
Sustainability
Duration
1 month
Introduction
In the current context of growing environmental awareness and global sustainability commitments, planting trees has become a familiar gesture among the population, often done as a gift.
The challenge
Treedom is a leading reforestation platform with the ambitious goal of planting 10 million trees by 2025. Unfortunately, gifting a tree has lost value in recent years, affecting the platform as well. However, our objective is not just to develop a disruptive solution, but to create a movement that actively engages people in environmental care and commitment, with the potential to significantly impact our planet's health and sustainability.
Role
While working with four other researchers, I designed a disruptive experience and managed the design sprint. Furthermore, I collaborated with two of them to create the dome screen, search, and sound features, using a Treedom design system and consistently integrating components.
Metodology
To address this challenge, we adopted a multidisciplinary approach, including in-depth research, design thinking using the double diamond methodology in five agile sprints, and innovative technologies to create an experience that exceeds user expectations.
Research Goals
To establish a solid foundation for our research, we defined macro areas of investigation to understand the motivations and emotions driving people's environmental commitment. What feelings and motivations lead users to engage with an app? Specifically, which elements related to nature and cross-cultural encounters generate positive or negative memories during app usage?
Deep in the Benchmark
To comprehensively address the challenge of engaging users in a novel way, we conducted an extensive series of comparative benchmarks and sought inspiration beyond the ordinary. We delved deeply into understanding the term "disruptive", its etymology and previous applications considered as such.
The discovery
Through the analysis of collected data, we outlined Lorenzo's profile: Lorenzo, a content designer, constantly seeks inspiration and novelty. He loves technology and is always the first to discover the latest apps, finding creative solutions to simplify his days. However, in his free time, he also wants to contribute to the planet with greener and more sustainable actions, integrating technology into daily life through innovative digital experiences. On the other hand, Lorenzo grapples with the effects of an overly connected lifestyle: dependence, stress, and resulting creative blocks that hinder his work. His remedy? Moments of relaxation, isolation, and disconnection from the digital world, which he increasingly seeks.
Perception of digital contributions
Users tend to perceive digital ecological actions as less effective and impactful than real-world actions in the field.
The key is fun
Despite the apparent lack of utility, individuals are willing to use apps and platforms that offer fun and engaging experiences.
Natural escapism
Dome will be built with materials that absorb carbon dioxide, helping to improve the air on our planet.
The vision
Treedhome is an innovative dome inside which user can have an immersive experience through spatial sounds, integrated fragrances and LED walls that play live videos and sounds of nature chosen by the users.
- RoamingDome will move periodically between various Italian squares and fairs to spread Treedom's mission and give new users a moment of immersion and calm by bringing nature back into urban spaces.
- InteractiveThe user can customize the experience through his device with the section "Make your forest sound".
- SustainableDome will be built with materials that absorb carbon dioxide, helping to improve the air on our planet.
The service
The Dome Experience:
The central feature of Treedhome is the dome, an innovative and sustainable structure. Within this dome, users can immerse themselves in nature.
The dome is a portal to the natural world, providing a unique and immersive experience that is impossible in traditional reforestation platforms.
LED walls lining the dome project high-definition videos, bringing scenes and sounds from Treedom's forests to life.
This innovative and immersive sensory experience authentically connects users with distant natural environments, evoking a sense of wonder and gratitude that is truly unique and captivating.
Through an intuitive and customizable interface, users can create their own natural symphony, recreating the relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere of the Treedhome dome within the comfort of their homes.
This extends the Treedhome experience beyond the dome and empowers users to actively participate in and contribute to the reforestation mission, fostering a sense of personal connection and involvement.
Next steps
Preparing for the Advent of 3D Visors: Considering emerging technologies, such as 3D visors, could further enhance the immersive experience.
Integrated Cultural Aspects: Recognizing the importance of cultural diversity and inclusion, Treedhome integrates artistic elements into the experience. For example, it showcases sustainable traditions and practices from various cultures, enriching the overall offering and fostering a sense of global community and shared responsibility for the environment.
Diverse Applications: Beyond public squares and fairs, Treedhome could find applications in corporate environments. For instance, it could offer employees relaxation and recharging during breaks, enhancing their well-being and productivity. Similarly, Treedhome could promote patient well-being and stress relief in healthcare settings, improving recovery rates and patient satisfaction.
Outcomes
Treedhome represents a significant innovation in environmental awareness and global reforestation promotion. By providing a unique and engaging way for individuals to connect with nature, it has the potential to significantly increase public interest and participation in reforestation efforts, leading to a substantial increase in the number of trees planted. Leveraging advanced technologies and thoughtful features, Treedhome can potentially engage and attract a new user base.
Thanks to my teamates: Riccardo Lipparini, Lucia Abate, Bruno Lorenzon & Gaia Lavinotti.
