Summary
The Traffic Snake Game (TSG) is a playful and impactful campaign that encourages primary school children (ages 4–12) to walk, cycle or use other sustainable modes of transport to get to school.
Over a two week period, pupils earn dots for sustainable trips, gradually “filling” a giant snake while collectively creating a sustainable cityscape. Friendly competition, shared rewards and strong teacher involvement make behaviour change fun and inclusive. Proven results include a 13% reduction in car journeys, a 9% increase in walking, and over 916 tonnes of CO₂ saved.
Originating in Belgium around 15 years ago, TSG expanded through EU funding between 2014 and 2017, reaching 19 countries, over 1,100 schools and nearly 180,000 students. Now sustained through an international network, TSG shows how simple gamification can drive meaningful, large scale shifts towards sustainable school mobility.
Key aspects
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Playful behaviour change through gamification
TSG uses a simple, visual and competitive game to motivate children to choose walking, cycling and other sustainable modes for school trips. -
Child centred and family inclusive approach
While focused on primary school children (4–12), the game actively involves parents, teachers and school leaders, reinforcing change beyond the classroom. -
Short, intensive campaign format
Delivered over a two week period, the game is easy to implement, highly visible and fits well within the school calendar. -
Visualisation and collective progress
Sustainable trips fill a snake and progressively “clean” a cityscape, making impact tangible and shared. -
Proven, large scale impact
Successfully implemented in 19 countries, with measurable reductions in car use, increased walking and significant CO₂ savings.
