UN Environment Programme unveils a simulation game for teenagers

Some of you might know that the United Nations has an initiative called the UN Environment Programme &UNEP) that acts as one of the leading global voices on the environment. Its key objective is to promote, inspire, inform and enable nations, organisations and individuals to join hands and contribute to improving the quality of life without compromising the environment or the upcoming generations.  

With sustainability at its core, the Ozone Secretariat of UNEP has recently unveiled a simulation game and avatar called Apollo’s Edition. Turns out, it is a latest addition to the UNEP’s Reset Earth education platform and has been developed using cutting-edge software technologies. The Reset Earth education platform is a free online learning portal meant for 13–18-year-olds and their teachers. It is full of study resources based on environment and its much-needed conservation. 

Okay, talking about state-of-the-art technology, UNEP has used the motion capture method to bring to life the brand-new Apollo character to life. In fact, to ensure a strong connection between the character and the spectators, a live actor’s body movements as well as facial expressions have been captured by a motion capture suit equipped with 17 sensors and headset technology. This gives it a true human portrayal with convincing body language and expressions. A powerful real-time 3D creation tool has also been employed to create Apollo’s own metaverse where she (yes, Apollo is depicted as a woman) spends her time vlogging about various educational topics based on scientific research, with special emphasis on ozone layer.  

As per the young users, the best part about the Reset Earth impact-oriented simulation game is that it lets them take charge. The game is designed in such a way that it enables students decide on their four possible policy directions, all of which have designated outcomes that are in turn documented and visualised by the game. In fact, the game focuses on the ozone layer, its function and significance, and impacts of the users’ choices on the environment, society, economy, and political hegemony. Interestingly, all these factors are recorded and then scored. As per UNEP, the aim behind the simulation game is to encourage the youngsters to become future scientists and policy-makers, or simply the champion of environmental protection.  

Apart from the game, there are attached learning tools as well focusing on the ozone layer. These include short videos, debates and projects. This brand-new initiative which is a part of Reset Earth education platform comes right after the success of its mobile game app, not to forget the popularity of the Reset Earth animation portal.