Presentation of Waterwise Case Study at the European Conference on Games Based Learning

On 2.10.2025, Paul Watson presented on behalf of the GREAT project team the
following paper virtually –

Playful Citizen Discussion Space to Help Steer Society Towards Water
Security
Abstract:

In this paper, we explore the use of a playful dilemma activity, a survey and public data analysis
to spark citizen awareness and reflection on water use within the UK. Water security ensures
access to fresh water for survival and society’s needs. There is significant citizen agency in water
security that impacts the freshwater reserves. However, in many countries, water security is
under-discussed. Encouraging spaces for individuals to assess their water use, identify waste,
and adopt sustainable practices is key to sustaining freshwater resources for the future. We
present a case study conducted as part of the GREAT project to stimulate citizen discussion on
water use and its subsequent impact on the broader water system. Through a series of activities,
citizens can reflect on their water use, consider the future forecast of water security within the
UK, and experience a playful dilemma to save a city from the effects of drought. In this dilemma,
players are part of an organisation tackling a city’s water crisis. Faced with limited water
resources, players analyse data on the population's usage and suggest behaviour changes to
reduce consumption. The challenge lies in balancing the need for water conservation with the
risk of proposing changes that are resisted by the population. The players must convince the
facilitator of both the practicality and acceptability of their plans. Success restores water security,
but failure reveals the consequences of inaction. Within this playful discussion space, we create
an exchange for citizens to elicit attitudes and preferences on current water use and explore how
individuals might be “nudged” into less wasteful behaviour. In this paper, we describe the co-
design of this qualitative approach, share findings on attitudes and preferences elicited (n = 19),
and reflect on this method as a tool for fostering awareness and meaningful citizen discussions.

Presentation available here.

Paper available here.