BrightDark: A Smartphone App Utilizing e-fotonovela and Text Messages to Increase Energy Conservation Awareness

摘要

Global energy consumption is rapidly increasing, while natural energy resources are shrinking. Household energy consumption accounts for 22% of total energy consumption in U.S. Almost half of household energy consumption is electricity use. In the U.S., households spent on average $1,419 annually for electricity and it is accountable for over 70% of household CO_2 emissions. Households are looking to reduce their electricity consumption. In this paper, we present a novel persuasive approach, by using e-fotonovela (art-based research) and text messages to provide household with a customized motivation and awareness solution to reduce their electricity consumption based on either cost or environmental concern. Findings provide significant results for the efficacy of the customized e-fotonovela and text messages in motivating and raising households' awareness toward electricity conservation.