Conversations on Sustainability: How Curiosity and Community Contribution inspired Jake Bamford's 'Bin Off' Board Game Business
As individuals and businesses, we have the potential to create meaningful change in the world, be it in sustainability, education, or fostering a sense of community, that can influence change , even through small acts.
Recently, I experienced a wonderful example of this intersection at an event hosted by Melbourne Meeples Inc., an Australian association dedicated to cultivating an appreciation for board games. It was here that I crossed paths with Jake Bamford, who had used his creativity to forge a unique path encompassing all these aspects.
Jake, from Perth, Western Australia, has an impressive background in Game Design and Teaching. As an educator and through innovative methods, Jakes is inspired to foster a spirit of inquiry and engagement while improving understanding of the world around us.
Jake has focused his efforts on sustainability, an increasingly crucial topic for society in general and in businesses today. His fascination with the environment was rooted in his upbringing. Born to biologist parents, Jake developed an innate respect and understanding of the natural world, and this connection to nature seeped into his professional life as well.
Jake has created his board game "Bin Off," a fun, strategy-based game that teaches players about effective recycling, subtly imparting the importance of sustainable practices. His approach to sustainability doesn’t stop at the game's concept; he takes it a step further by ensuring that the game itself is produced locally using recycled materials. In this way, he addresses the challenge of excess plastic waste commonly associated with the board game industry, thus promoting sustainability at every level.
To me, Jake’s work was a revelation. It demonstrated the potential of the humble board game as a vehicle for learning and connection. I even purchased "Bin Off" for my grandchildren, confident that they would not only enjoy the game but also gain valuable lessons about sustainability.
Jake is a prime example of how innovative thinking can lead to unexpected intersections and valuable opportunities. His journey wasn't always easy; he had to tackle several challenges to bring his game to market and continuously seeks funding to keep producing these educational resources. However, his vision is clear: he wants to create entertaining, educational experiences that help people connect with nature and learn essential concepts through play.
Jake's story serves as an inspiration for businesses of all sizes, demonstrating that with a dash of creativity and a commitment to sustainability, we can indeed transform the world through small actions.
Engaging tool to teach players about effective recycling practices
"Bin Off," is designed as an engaging tool to teach players about effective recycling practices, thus incorporating sustainability education into its core. But how does it work? Here are a few ways:
1. Gameplay Mechanics: The rules of the game are designed around the concept of recycling. Just like in the real world, players are tasked with sorting various types of waste into the appropriate bins. This activity helps players to subconsciously learn and reinforce proper recycling habits.
2. Visual and Material Aids: The game cards themselves depict different types of waste, each one with a symbol indicating the correct disposal method. This visual reinforcement assists players in remembering how to correctly sort each type of waste. Furthermore, the game is made from recycled materials, underlining its commitment to sustainability.
3. Subtle Messaging: Rather than an overt lecture on sustainability, the game incorporates its lessons seamlessly into the gameplay. As players compete to sort their waste effectively and score points, they are also learning valuable lessons about waste management and the environment. This implicit method of instruction is often more impactful, making learning fun and memorable.
4. Promotion of Discussion: While the game is simple, it opens the door to deeper discussions about sustainability. For instance, players might question why certain types of waste go into specific bins, sparking conversation about recycling processes and their importance in waste management.
By integrating these elements, "Bin Off" manages to turn a fun, competitive game into an educational experience, subtly imparting the principles of sustainability and effective recycling to its players. It is a practical example of how games can be a powerful medium for education, fostering a sustainable mindset in an engaging and interactive way.
So what pointers can small businesses take from Jakes contribution?
Here's how:
1. Embracing Sustainable Practices: Produced locally with recycled materials, Jake demonstrates how businesses can consciously opt for more sustainable alternatives. This choice reduces environmental impact, challenges the status quo in an industry traditionally linked with high waste production, and sets a precedent for other businesses to follow.
2. Education and Awareness:. Jake's business directly contributes to raising awareness and educating the public about vital environmental issues.
3. Creating a Market for Sustainable Products: It is becoming increasingly obvious that many consumers demand products that align with their values. Businesses need to consider integrating sustainability into their product development and marketing strategies.
4. Promoting Community Engagement: Jake's approach to business fosters a strong sense of community and encourages community involvement and collective action towards a more sustainable future.
In these ways, demonstrated by Jake’s creation, small businesses can have a big impact. Even seemingly small steps—like choosing recycled materials or integrating educational elements into a product—can spark broader conversations, influence consumer behaviour, and contribute to a more sustainable world.
His story is also testament to the innovative spirit of the human mind, reminding us that change, growth, and opportunity can spring from the most unexpected sources. As we move forward, let's remember to stay curious, open-minded, and eager to embrace the connections that will help us grow both personally and professionally.
Are you concerned about the impact your business is having on the environment?
Do you want to take action towards sustainability but don't know where to start?
You're not alone. With the current state of the environment in Australia, it's clear that immediate and innovative action is required.
That's why we're excited to announce our upcoming YTM Learn Grow Achieve event featuring a dynamic and engaging speaker, Euan Ronald. As a Senior Manager in EY's Climate Change & Sustainability Services, Euan has over 20 years' experience in sustainability, environment, health & safety management across a range of industry sectors globally. He has helped many organizations develop and implement sustainability strategies to address risk and maximize opportunity.
Join the conversation at the YTM online event on 27th June where we will engage in conversation prompted by Euan Ronald, Plan A, because there is no Planet B with Euan Ronald.
Hello , I am Kerryn Powell, The Network Catalyst and founder of Your Time Matters. I wish you every success and if you are you ready to start on your own journey? And if learning from the experience of others who have walked the path before you, so you can avoid mistakes, stay on track, and achieve success more quickly and efficiently, as you are kept accountable and moving forward, reach out to me and let’s see how I can help you take your vision to reality.