A unique game unveils tribal communities' climate fight.
Climate change poses significant threats, particularly to tribal communities, who are often on the front lines of environmental shifts. To help people better grasp these complex challenges, the College of Menominee Nation in Wisconsin has developed a unique board game. Named "Reztoration," the game allows players to simulate how tribal communities respond to pressing climate impacts like floods and droughts. This innovative approach makes understanding crucial climate resilience strategies both accessible and engaging, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable action.
Created with help from Sara Smith of the college’s Sustainable Development Institute, and former interns Jermiah Moses and Cedar Fernandez, the game offers a powerful learning experience. While set on a fictional reservation, it draws deep inspiration from the Menominee Tribe and their experiences. Players must navigate various climate disasters, making strategic decisions that affect the community’s ability to recover and thrive.
For instance, investing in emergency preparedness can shield against devastating fires or floods. Building a solar farm, a key sustainable solution, helps reduce the risk of power outages, showcasing the tangible benefits of clean energy. The game forces players to consider the economic, environmental, and cultural trade-offs involved in every choice. It emphasizes that collective action is vital, as the community's success or failure is shared by all.
"Reztoration" is currently in beta-testing, with a free version planned for release next year. It serves as an important reminder that tackling climate change requires thoughtful preparation and community-driven solutions. By making climate education interactive, this game encourages everyone to think critically about how we can build a more resilient and sustainable future, underscoring the urgency of protecting our planet.