Informing Sustainable Regional Food Chains through Serious Games: The Play Marmara “Food”

Abstract

The food system generates one-third of global GHG emissions, with urban regions playing a key role in climate challenges. In Türkiye, the Marmara Region—home to over 25 million people—faces mounting pressure on its food systems due to rapid urbanization, land-use change, and environmental degradation. Despite its agricultural potential, the region experiences declining farmland and water quality. The Play Marmara Food game, developed within the MARUF initiative by Play the City, addresses these challenges through a serious game format. It brings together stakeholders from various sectors to simulate scenarios, visualize data, and co-develop sustainable strategies. This study evaluates the game’s role in fostering collaboration and informing food supply chain design to enhance regional sustainability.