The Role of Virtual Reality in Promoting Sustainability
Journal
Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems
Information Technology and Systems
ISSN
2367-3370
2367-3389
Date Issued
2025
Author(s)
Harlem Miranda
Alex David Muyulema-Mayorga
Guillermo Palacios-Navarro
Type
book-chapter
Abstract
In a global context where sustainability has become a central challenge, immersive virtual reality emerges as a promising tool to address environmental, social, and economic problems. This study explores the potential of immersive virtual reality and virtual prototyping to foster sustainability. Using a theoretical approach and PRISMA methodology, relevant articles on this topic were selected and rigorously evaluated. The search strategy included the Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, APA PsycNET, and SpringerLink databases, using terms related to virtual reality and sustainability. Ten studies were included, indicating that virtual reality, by providing a deeply immersive experience, not only enhances the perception and understanding of sustainability issues but also motivates significant behavioral changes towards more sustainable practices. It is highlighted that virtual reality is more effective than non-immersive learning methods in terms of emotional and cognitive impact, which underlines its value as an educational and awareness-raising tool. Furthermore, it can offer practical solutions to create a more sustainable environment by reducing the environmental footprint, such as decreasing the need for physical travel through virtual meetings or implementing telemedicine to support human health. Despite these promising applications, the need for further empirical research is recognized to explore the variability of responses among different demographic groups and to validate these findings in real-world contexts. Additionally, the development and optimization of virtual environments is suggested to increase the effectiveness of sustainable interventions.