designing low-barrier public interactions to transform dog-walking into shared sustainable culture.

Dog waste is a persistent problem in urban environments. Although most dog owners intend to behave responsibly, a clear value–action gap exists between their sustainable intention and actual disposal behavior. The challenge and oportunity is not only encouraging people to pick up dog waste, but enabling sustainable disposal. While many dog owners buy compostable bags with good intentions, limited waste infrastructure means they are often discarded in regular bins, cancelling out their environmental benefit.

In collaboration with the companies Earthrated and Above Design Agency, this project explored how design could help close this gap by designing targeted interventions to make  responsible behaviour easier, more visible, and socially reinforced.

concept.

I designed a playful public experience for dog parks that transforms picking up dog waste from an individual responsibility into a shared social ritual. Through interactive elements, visual feedback, and multi-sensory engagement, the installation encourages dog owners to participate together, turning a mundane task into a moment of curiosity, play, and connection.

impact.

By addressing the intention–action gap through social design, the project demonstrates how brands can move beyond product communication and instead shape everyday behaviour. The concept positions Earth Rated not only as a provider of sustainable dog waste bags, but as a facilitator of cleaner parks, responsible habits, and stronger dog-owner communities.