AIS expands Green Nudges at MVP Building following its pilot implementation

Did you notice those bright, eye-catching stickers popping up around the MVP building? Perhaps on a light switch, near a faucet, or by a trash bin? If so, you’ve encountered a Green Nudge!

The Ateneo Institute of Sustainability (AIS), through its Organizational Sustainability Program, first piloted its Green Nudges initiative on 15 January 2025, in the student organization rooms of the MVP Building. These spaces, where everyday actions such as switching off lights, conserving water, and unplugging devices often go unnoticed, served as the initial test ground. Following this successful pilot, which received positive feedback and demonstrated the potential of behavioral “nudges” for the rest of the community, AIS launched the full installation of Green Nudges at the MVP Building this June 2025.

This initiative was undertaken with the support of AIS’ Intersession Interns, namely Shekinah Jira Mesa, Lorenzo Joseph Sierra, Odessa Julienne Rebaya, Jairon Lee Mejia, Hxyll Almonguera, and Sebastian Raphael Ang.

The Green Nudges take inspiration from The Little Book of Green Nudges of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which aims to promote the use of behavioral science to encourage environmentally friendly habits in higher education institutions around the world.

Designed by Kim Co, the Green Nudges project utilizes 4x4-inch vinyl stickers, which are eye-catchy and effective. Each sticker features a distinctive chartreuse yellow background and a Reuleaux triangle shape, which are visual elements developed in collaboration with the University Marketing and Communications Office (UMCO). These are then thoughtfully placed in high-contact areas such as near light switches, power outlets, air conditioning units, faucets, and trash bins. Each sticker features a compelling visual or message designed to gently prompt individuals to conserve energy, reduce water consumption, and minimize waste, ultimately helping to build lasting sustainable habits and ecological conversion. This approach, grounded in behavioral science, guides decision-making without limiting individual choice, making environmentally conscious actions more intuitive. 

During the two-day installation, the team introduced this idea across various offices within the MVP building, including the Office for Social Concern and Involvement (OSCI), the Social and Environmental Engagement for Development and Sustainability (SEEDS), the Office of Student Activities (OSA), and the Office of Campus Ministry (OCM). 

This initiative is far more than just placing stickers; it's about making environmental responsibility visible, approachable, and an intrinsic part of daily life in the Ateneo community. These Green Nudges are continuously evolving, and we believe their true power lies in community collaboration. 

The Green Nudges can also be downloaded through the AIS website, where you’ll find a collection of ready-to-print nudges that can be used across shared spaces or at home. 

Have a design idea for a nudge? Or perhaps your office is ready to be "nudged"? Reach out to ais@ateneo.edu to learn more.