EcoTrace
Personal Project
Research / Design
Figma / Adobe CC
Problem
In today's world, people are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact, including their carbon footprint. However, many individuals lack accessible and user-friendly tools to track and manage their carbon emissions effectively.
Mobile (IOS)
Solution
EcoTrace is designed to address these challenges by offering a streamlined and intuitive carbon footprint tracking experience. The app provides users with personalized insights, actionable recommendations, and engaging features to help them understand and reduce their carbon emissions effectively.
Deliverables
1 month worth of initial research.
Brand identity & applications.
Paper + low-fidelity wireframes
Interactive mobile app prototype
Project started in February 2024
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”
- Robert Swan
Research
During the research phase, a multifaceted approach was adopted to gain a comprehensive understanding of users' needs, behaviours, and pain points regarding carbon footprint tracking.
A thorough analysis of existing carbon footprint tracking apps and similar sustainability tools was conducted to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for differentiation. This helped identify gaps in the market and inform the design of unique features that would set "EcoTrace" apart.
In-depth interviews were conducted with a diverse range of individuals, including environmental enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and those new to sustainability practices. These interviews aimed to uncover users' motivations, challenges, and existing behaviours related to carbon footprint tracking.
Market research was initiated to understand local climate trends and the overarching sustainability objectives set by the country. This deep dive sought to contextualize users' environmental consciousness within the broader landscape of regional climate initiatives and goals.
By analyzing local climate data and governmental directives, EcoTrace was aligned not only with individual users' aspirations but also with larger-scale environmental objectives. Understanding these macro-level trends laid the framework for future design features that empower users to track their carbon footprint while also educating and inspiring them to contribute meaningfully towards national and global sustainability targets.
Pain Points
1
Users feel misinformed about current trends and carbon reduction methods
2
Users are unaware how their carbon footprint compares to others in their community
3
Users are unaware how their carbon footprint compares to others in their community
Persona
Tim Snow is a 41-year old father and an aspiring climate activist.
"The fate of both my future and that of our children hangs in the balance."
Daily Life
Software engineer by day, family man by night.
Leads a healthy lifestyle and loves to stay active..
Takes children out on weekends.
Frustrations
Tim wants to improve his carbon footprint, but he doesn't know where to start, or how to measure his goals.
Tim wants to set a good example for his kids
Ideation
Armed with insights from the research phase, the ideation phase focused on generating innovative ideas for features and design concepts that would resonate with users and address their needs effectively.
Embarking on the journey to reduce one's carbon footprint can be a formidable task, especially for those new to this realm. The intricacies of comprehending various elements contributing to carbon output can be overwhelming as seen in the user journey map. EcoTrace addresses this challenge by consolidating all these facets into a single, user-friendly platform.
I began by focusing on the local level, envisioning how users in our community would gauge their carbon emissions. Through extensive user research, I discovered that the most significant areas of impact for users lie within their homes and purchasing habits. This insight served as the guiding principle for shaping the direction of the app, and I knew that I wanted to include a way for users to learn more about their habits, but also new ways that they can reduce their output. This lead to the creation of an "Eco Score" which is a grade that reflects the users carbon footprint output.
Because the app is also rooted in community, connection and collaboration, I added the ability to add contacts and share progress. With the option to view contacts' Eco Scores, users can find inspiration.
The purpose of this sitemap is to clearly outline the user journey starting from the homepage. This sitemap is based on a matrix model - giving the user free rein over how they engage with different sections of the interactive desktop / mobile website.
Iteration
During the iteration phase of the UX/UI design process for the carbon footprint tracker app, I leveraged the insights gained from user research to craft a user experience that seamlessly aligned with user needs and aspirations.
One of the key aspects of this phase involved the development of a cohesive visual design system. This system integrated various design elements such as color schemes, typography, iconography, and nature-oriented imagery to create a visually compelling and cohesive interface. The screen backgrounds were carefully curated to evoke feelings of environmental consciousness and sustainability, while the typography was meticulously chosen and seamlessly integrated with transparent frames to enhance readability and exude a modern aesthetic appeal. Iconography was employed to enhance navigation and communicate complex concepts succinctly, while imagery reinforced themes on certain screens such as events or suggestions.
Throughout the creation process, I focused on a user-centered design approach. The main navigational elements such as Footprint, Community, and Spending, lead the user through simple flows.
Moreover, the visual design aimed not only to appeal aesthetically but also to evoke an emotional connection with users. By incorporating environmentally-themed elements and a modern, engaging aesthetic, the design sought to instill a sense of empowerment and motivation for users to actively engage with the app and make positive changes in their carbon footprint.
See it for yourself:
Mobile Prototype
Outcomes
Reflection
An app like EcoTrace has the potential to create a lasting impact for future generations. In the pursuit of environmental conservation and carbon reduction, the optimal moment to act is now, and the ability to effect change rests in the hands of each individual.
Updates
App in development
Update EcoTrace with the most up-to-date news and targets relating to the carbon footprint reduction standards.
Following government guidelines - explore how EcoTrace and be incorporated into new countries and regions
Keep reining and incorporating new features through the support of additional usability tests.