Introduction

Empowering kids to manage electronic waste

Project Details

Client: Accenture Song
Duration: 3 months

Industry: Civic Engagement and Education

Role:

Researcher, Strategist, Facilitator, Service Designer, Visual Designer.

Context

Designers from Accenture Song challenged our team to create a service that fosters community engagement. As a service designer, I collaborated closely with the client throughout the entire design process—from initial research to concept testing—ensuring a user-centered and impactful solution.

Challenge

Electronic waste is the fastest growing waste stream globally, amounting to 50 million
tons annually

Research

Source: Global E-Waste Monitor of 2016

Barrier

Over 70% of obsolete electronics in the US are stored for 3-5 years, contributing to significant electronic waste.

Electronic hoarding stems from consumers' repair ignorance and inadequate value recovery systems, leading to unused devices accumulating in homes.

At the time of disposal, consumers have two choices for electronic waste:
- To dispose in landfill
- Retain the unused electronic.
There is no easy access to responsible disposing information, repairing knowledge, repairing experts or repairing tools.

Opportunity

Connecting knowledge, motivation, and community engagement can unify fragmented
e-waste systems, making participation easier and more meaningful.

Opportunity

In order to overcome the need to gain knowledge about reuse/repurposing electronic waste, the research showed that people have intrinsic and extrinsic motivations to participate and commit to their personal needs.

Framework from clustering insights

Observational Research Insight

Behavioral shifts are more likely to occur through group engagement, particularly within family settings or community volunteer efforts, where participation feels accessible and enjoyable.

Problem Statement

ACCESS

How might we improve access to e-waste repair, recycling, and disposal options in the city?

Define

KNOWLEDGE

How might we address lack of knowledge through the existing unstructured system?

Design

Solution

Introducing Unwaste, a service-oriented, structured extracurricular program for kids that provides them with essential life skills.

UNWASTE fosters sustainable behaviors in children through hands-on missions and an educational curriculum focused on extending the lifespan of electronics. Kids learn maintenance, repair, responsible disposal, and donation, reducing e-waste in landfills. The program empowers them to engage their communities, form collectives, and participate in sustainability efforts.