Gamifying Eco-Awareness: Inspiring Sustainable Habits in Malaysian and Indonesian Schools

Low recycling awareness in Malaysia and Indonesia remains a concern despite various initiatives. This study explores game-based learning as an innovative approach to address this issue through G-Ventures, an eco-awareness game designed for Malaysian and Indonesian schoolchildren. The primary objective is to evaluate its effectiveness in fostering recycling awareness and encouraging responsible waste management practices. A series of game-based experiments was conducted with 30 primary school students in Malaysia and 29 elementary school students in Indonesia. The methodology included pre- and post-test assessments during eco-awareness sessions to measure changes in students’ recycling knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. The findings indicate that game-based interventions significantly enhance students’ understanding of recycling practices, demonstrating its potential as an engaging and effective educational tool. Beyond its immediate impact, this study highlights a broader significance of integrating gamified learning approaches into environmental education. By making learning interactive and enjoyable, eco-awareness games can motivate children to adopt sustainable behaviours from an early age. The implications extend to future educational programmes, where game-based strategies can be utilised to cultivate eco-awareness in young learners. This study aligns with the United Nations’ SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), which promotes waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. By fostering responsible waste disposal habits among schoolchildren, game-based intervention contributes to resource conservation, energy savings, and pollution reduction. Ultimately, this work highlights the importance of interactive learning in shaping a greener future, where younger generations actively engage in environmental sustainability efforts.