Isabella Tehrani

Students

Rebound & Recycle- implementation & gamification of recycling at Rolfs Athletics Center

College(s)

College of Science

Faculty Advisor

Tom Gallagher

Class Year

2026

Abstract

This capstone tested whether gamification improved recycling behavior amongst the varsity men's and women's basketball teams in Rolfs Basketball Athletics Center, at the University of Notre Dame. This was evaluated through a recycling game consisting of a mini basketball hoop mounted over a recycling bin, educational posters, and a scoreboard to keep track of individual and team points. Initial assessments showed that recyclable items offered at the at the facility such as protein shakes and plastic bottles were often discarded in general waste due to lack of accessibility and awareness. Following the implementation, the gamified system and friendly competition ultimately increased recycling rates and allowed for assessments of gender-based disparities in recycling practices.

While there were barriers (inconsistent bin availability and team travel schedules), it is apparent that through gamification there was an increase in recycling engagement. Ultimately showing that embedding sustainability through an athlete centered approach such as competition and performance can cause meaningful shifts in behaviors as well as offer a scalable model for other team environments.