Robots and Sustainability: Robots as Persuaders to Promote Recycling

Abstract Humans tend to interact socially with humanoid devices, such as robots. Therefore, a possible application of robotics technology is the promotion pro-social behavior, namely recycling. To test effectiveness this application, an experimental setting in which participants were required dispose waste was created. Two types electronic instructors, robot and tablet computer, located close disposal area provide instructions on appropriate disposal. The comparison two instructors found that exposed sorted more accurately than computer. Scores for perceived anthropomorphism induced empathy higher We conclude robots, because their anthropomorphic features, are likely evoke computers, thus robots can be effective promoting behavior.