| Abstract |
Waste volumes are rising. This is a problem, as they worsen environmental challenges such as climate change. At the same time, however, waste bears valuable resources - yet untapped. The concept of a circular economy bears the potential to unleash these resources. In the short run, only changing the waste sorting behavior of citizens can effectively contribute to circular resource flows, as waste management companies cannot ensure the purity of waste by purely technical means. Aligned with the digital realm, this work focuses on designing a digital artifact that contributes to improved household waste sorting. Using a design science research approach, we develop the artifact's design with input from theory, 23 interviews with potential users and practitioners, and evaluate a prototypical instantiation in a large German city. We contribute to literature and theory by generating design knowledge on information systems for improved biowaste and residual waste sorting by individuals. We derive as key design principles the importance of awareness and transparency, social influence, education and confirmation, and incentives. Our solution embracing those principles enhances the awareness of circular economy processes and the relevance of correct waste sorting. At the same time, our solution is relevant to solving waste management companies' current challenges such as the incineration of valuable biowaste as part of residual waste. |
