Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and addressing it requires a global commitment to sustainability. UNESCO's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize responsible consumption, waste reduction, and environmental education as key actions in combating climate change. Recycling plays a vital role in waste reduction and conserving natural resources. To foster sustainable recycling habits, education is key, and serious games offer an engaging and effective way to teach students by making learning interactive and enjoyable.

This study presents a serious game designed to educate players about the recycling process. Unlike other recycling-themed games, our game introduces a structured, three-stage approach: Sorting, Collection, and Processing. Players must correctly sort waste materials, manage an efficient collection system, and oversee the recycling process to maximize resource recovery. This structured progression enhances player engagement and provides a comprehensive understanding of real-world recycling systems. The game features immersive mechanics, interactive decision-making, and visually appealing design elements to reinforce learning.

To evaluate the player experience and the effectiveness of our game, we conducted a study using the Game Experience Questionnaire (GEQ). The questionnaire assessed various dimensions, including competence, immersion, enjoyment, and emotional responses. The results revealed high levels of engagement, with players reporting a sense of accomplishment, challenge, and enjoyment. The structured gameplay approach was particularly effective in reinforcing knowledge and promoting a deeper understanding of recycling.

Our findings highlight the potential of serious games in sustainability education, demonstrating that interactive experiences can foster environmental awareness and encourage responsible behaviors. This study contributes to the field of game-based learning by presenting an approach to teaching recycling concepts and emphasizing the importance of digital tools in promoting sustainability.

Keywords: Game-Based Learning, Serious Games, Environmental education, Recycling, Sustainability.