Children and young people worldwide can learn more about climate change, the environment, and reducing the impacts of flooding with new game ‘Rivercraft’.

Based on the £54.7-million flood risk management scheme in Preston and South Ribble, the in-game Preston world is the first activity of its kind that uses AI to map a region and convert it into an interactive game map.

The games will be available globally and in multiple languages to be used in educational and home environments through Minecraft: Education Edition.

Microsoft is working with the Environment Agency and specialists in youth engagement, BlockBuilders, to draw users into three themed games. The Preston world will encourage young people to learn about flood risk management, climate change, local human geography, engineering and the environment.

The first of the three games focuses on flood management, and tasks the player with constructing various types of flood prevention measures including natural flood management, walls and embankments as well as flood storage areas and flood gates. Players will learn about the pros and cons of each approach and their suitability within local communities

Game two looks more deeply at flood prevention and explores how individual actions can alleviate climate change and how understanding flood risk can reduce the damage to people and property.

The third focuses on the local environment and tests the player with conducting an ecological survey using their digital workbook and camera. The aim will be for the surveyors to spot and record some of our most beloved wildlife species including water voles and otters.

Characters in the game have also been adapted to reflect the diversity of the local project team and the communities the Environment Agency serves.

Commenting on the project, Andy Brown, Flood Risk Manager for the Environment Agency, said: “This is an amazing opportunity for students and a project we are proud to be a part of. Not only will young people learn about a major flooding scheme in the UK, but they will also discover more about climate change, the environment, flooding and the types of roles available for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“Introducing the next generation to the brilliant career opportunities we have here at the Environment Agency is key if we are to deliver our vital flood and coastal defence projects. This includes the Preston and South Ribble Scheme, which will directly reduce flood risk to 4,700 homes and businesses.

“We want to help everyone discover their drive, passion and enthusiasm for the environment and the jobs available within that sector. We can’t wait to see Rivercraft and the Preston world brought to life across the globe.”

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