Design patterns for a positive green user experience

Abstract

This study explores green user experience design patterns and develops two browser extension prototypes. The research employed the design science research methodology to develop and evaluate the prototypes. The Transparent Browsing Footprint Feedback prototype tracks the number of websites visited and the duration of visits and estimates carbon emissions. The Actionable EcoPoints Nudges prototype translates sustainable behavior into an incentive mechanism for sustainability. A convenience sampling method was used by selecting 12 participants for testing, and feedback was collected through questionnaires and daily observations. The feedback results were analyzed using thematic analysis. During the five-day testing period, participants who tested the transparent browsing footprint feedback prototype generally reported greater awareness of the environmental implications of online activities. Participants who tested the EcoPoints prototype generally perceived the sustainability tasks as practical and gamification elements as engaging. This study provides exploratory insights for green user experience research and design recommendations for future research on positive green user experience.