In a groundbreaking initiative, environmental enthusiasts and the government have collaborated to launch the ''Animal Town'' mobile application on March 8. This simulation game aims to raise public awareness and financial support for biodiversity conservation through engaging gameplay and in-app transactions.
Enabling players to join a team of biodiversity advocates and assist talking animals in town management, 'Animal Town' emerges as a potent tool for mobilizing support in biodiversity conservation. As emphasized by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Jonas Leones during the Quezon City launch, he underscored the game's ability to convert virtual transactions into real-world impact by funding critical conservation initiatives including reforestation projects, wildlife protection measures, and community-based conservation efforts.
Development Partnerships and Financial Management
Developed by the DENR Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the game was brought to life through the Biodiversity Finance Initiative. ThinkBIT Solutions Phils., Inc., a wholly Filipino-owned IT solutions company specializing in game development, collaborated on the project.
The Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP) will manage the revenue generated by the app, ensuring transparency and adherence to the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP). Atty. Jose Andres Canivel, the executive director of FFP, assured players and partners of prudent stewardship.
Education Through Entertainment: Fostering Empathy and Responsibility
Beyond fundraising, ''Animal Town'' serves as an educational platform, imparting knowledge about the importance of biodiversity and its sustainable management. By employing interactive gameplay and effective storytelling, players gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of natural resources, fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility towards their protection and conservation.
Revenue Goals and Accessibility
Reports indicate that the DENR aims to generate P810,000 in revenue from ''Animal Town'' this year. The app is available for download on Google Play for Android phones and the App Store for iOS phones, allowing users across platforms to contribute to biodiversity conservation while enjoying an entertaining and educational gaming experience.
