Gamifying Sustainability: Leveraging Game-Based Learning to Champion Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – A Case Study

This paper examines how sustainability education can be effectively integrated into game-based learning (GBL) to enhance environmental consciousness. As global ecological challenges intensify, instilling sustainable practices in future generations becomes crucial. GBL offers an engaging platform to embed sustainability concepts through immersive and interactive virtual environments. The study explores the theoretical underpinnings of sustainability education and GBL, highlighting their synergy in raising awareness and fostering sustainable behaviours. By reviewing existing literature, it evaluates the impact of incorporating sustainability principles into GBL platforms. The discussion includes the integration of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), real-world scenarios, simulations, and collaborative elements to deepen players' understanding and stimulate critical thinking about complex sustainability issues. The paper also examines the role of feedback mechanisms, assessment tools, and adaptive learning approaches in maintaining engagement and knowledge retention. It concludes by advocating for the inclusion of sustainability in GBL as a means to develop environmentally conscious citizens. Leveraging the immersive nature of games, educators can cultivate a generation equipped to understand and address sustainability challenges, contributing to innovative educational approaches for promoting sustainable practices.