Geocaching on MDG lifestyle

or

How to address Young Modern Performers outdoors?

Cake base

1st step - Setting up general contents

We started with a brainstorming session on which content we wanted to transmit to the YMPs by geocaching.

The general impression is that we have to deliver short messages. This is not because there is not enough space in the MDG geocaches, but because a YMP who is searching for a geocache doesn't have the intention of reading long stories about MDGs. Still, he or she is in a game in leisure time hours. That is why we thought of pictures and slogans within the MDG geocaches. More information can be integrated into the description and introduction of the geocache on the online platform.

Our main goal is to get YMPs to a) think about possibilities to change their lifestyles in a sustainable way and b) to pinpoint that information locally within the sights of the city that are related to the topics.

2nd step - Searching for locations

Knowing which locations we will choose is important for us because the shape and size of the information material depends on the size of the box, which then depends on the hiding place. So the first step, before further elaboration of the information material, is to find suitable locations that are close to places YMPs are visiting on a regular basis, and which would fit the topic, as well as offering some space for hiding a cache box. Moreover, we need to take care that the MDG caches are not too close to other caches already existing in the city. Otherwise, there would be some confusion with other searchers. The search for locations took us on some walks through the city, and at the same time gave us ideas for the contents of the boxes as we were browsing different locations.

3rd step - Buying materials

As geocaching is a private, leisure time game, no expensive materials are needed for preparation. We bought standard Tupperware boxes

in sizes appropriate to our hiding places, some additional materials like condoms for MDG 6, and tree seeds for MDG 7. All other materials can be paper and some plastic covers.

4th step - Producing materials

Production time depends on the number of items that are produced per cache box. In our case, we produced 50 of each information material item, and put 20 of each in the boxes, so that some reserves for future refilling of the cache boxes is available at hand.

All materials were put into the plastic bags and then in the boxes,

so that no water from rain could destroy the information materials. In addition, we placed a small letter to the finder, that if a geocache is found by accident it is part of a game and it should not be taken away.