How Graphic Design can influence society is often underestimated and unnoticed. How often have you seen a product and been drawn to it because of its packaging? Or clicked on an advertisement because it was visually appealing? Graphic design is all around us, and it plays a significant role, persuading us to take an action, whether that’s buying a product, learning more about a cause, or even changing our behaviour.
In January, I completed and submitted my dissertation at @UlsterUniversity @Belfastschoolofart on this very topic – How Graphic design can influence behaviour change, focusing specifically on how it can influence a more sustainable future. Inspired throughout my placement at @CATAGENlimited by not only the technology industry and the challenge of translating technical information to visual communications, but also their Net-Zero technologies which will play a vital role in decarbonising transport and industry, it became evident that everyone has a role to play in this Net-Zero transition and that behaviour change on a massive scale is needed.
As a result I used my dissertation to look at the approaches, tools, and models which the designer can use to change behaviour to shape a more sustainable future. While also
demonstrating the power of the graphic designer to influence behaviour when using these approaches, tools, and models through examples, before highlighting a new research model – Design for Sustainable behaviour change (DfSB).
Ultimately, design can be seen to play a pivotal role towards a more sustainable future. With increased opportunities in this space I made suggestions on how design for sustainable behaviour change could be adapted by designers, education, supported by government, and creating a partnership approach to meeting Net Zero.
A massive thank you again must go out to my supervisor @Prof.IanMontgomery for his invaluable guidance, assistance, and encouragement throughout my dissertation writing. And to everyone at @CATAGENlimtied for their guidance
and encouragement throughout placement, and for inspiring me with the work they are doing to clean and
decarbonise the air.
and encouragement throughout placement, and for inspiring me with the work they are doing to clean and
decarbonise the air.
