Proposal system, proposal method, and program

Abstract

To provide a proposal system and the like capable of encouraging users to take decarbonization actions.SOLUTION: A proposal system 10 includes: a first acquisition unit 11 that acquires a first point assigned to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information representing the CO2 emission reduction results of the user; a determination unit 13 that compares the first point with a second point required for exchange of the redemption menu to be exchanged and determines a proposal to the user; and an output unit 15 that outputs the determined proposal content.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a proposal system, a proposal method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the increase in CO2 emissions has become a problem, and there is a demand for a reduction in CO2 emissions. In particular, there is a demand for reduction in CO2 emissions not only from companies that emit a large amount of CO2, but also from individuals. However, it is known that reducing CO2 emissions at the individual level is difficult to realize and to continue. In order to continue reducing CO2 emissions at the individual level, for example, as shown in Patent Document 1, it has been proposed to visualize the amount of CO2 reduction and provide cost incentives. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-94423 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, it is desirable to further encourage users to take decarbonizing actions, but the technology of Patent Document 1 leaves room for improvement in encouraging users to take decarbonizing actions.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a proposal system, proposal method, and program that can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A proposal system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires first points granted to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information indicating the user's track record of implementing CO2 emission reduction measures, a determination unit that compares the first points with second points required to exchange for a rebate menu to be exchanged and determines the content of a proposal to the user, and an output unit that outputs the determined content of the proposal.

[0007] A proposal method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure obtains first points assigned to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information indicating the user's track record of implementing CO2 emission reduction measures, compares the first points with second points required to exchange for the rebate menu to be exchanged, determines the content of a proposal to the user, and outputs the determined content of the proposal.

[0008] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute the proposed method described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to realize a proposal system or the like that can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a decarbonization system used in the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a decarbonization system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows the decarbonization catalog. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a composite menu. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a first example of a display for further encouraging people to take decarbonizing actions. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a second example of a display for further encouraging people to take decarbonizing actions. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the decarbonization system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the detailed operation of step S14 shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing another example of the detailed operation of step S14 shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (Background to this disclosure) Before describing the present disclosure, the background to the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a decarbonization system used in the embodiments described below.

[0012] In recent years, greenhouse gas emissions have increased dramatically due to human social activities, causing global warming. Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide, are urgently needed.

[0013] The Paris Agreement, adopted at the 2015 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP21) and coming into effect in 2016, was an international agreement to achieve "net zero" (a state in which greenhouse gas emissions and removals are balanced) by 2050. Carbon credits are attracting attention as one of the means to achieve this net zero goal.

[0014] Carbon credits are a system in which companies and other organizations issue credits representing the reduction (amount reduced or absorbed) of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by forest protection or afforestation, or the introduction of energy-saving equipment, and can then trade these credits with other organizations such as other companies. Organizations are the entities that create carbon credits, and other companies are the entities that use them. Carbon credit systems include the government-led (Japan) J-Credit and the private-sector-led Voluntary Credit.

[0015] Here, examples of organizations include companies, businesses, organizations, local governments (e.g., local governments), and non-profit organizations (NPOs) that are working to contribute to the environment, but they may also be any other organization that is working to contribute to the environment.

[0016] Furthermore, greenhouse gas emissions reductions are being sought not only from organizations such as those mentioned above, but also from users such as individuals and households. However, currently, it is difficult for users to effectively utilize the environmental value generated by their decarbonization actions for purposes such as creating carbon credits. Furthermore, currently, the environmental value generated by users' decarbonization actions is small, making it difficult to make it a viable business. It is believed that decarbonization can be accelerated if users and organizations work together toward decarbonization, but as mentioned above, currently, an environment in which users and organizations can work together toward decarbonization has not been created.

[0017] Therefore, the inventors of the present application developed the decarbonization system (an example of an environmental system) described below with the aim of accelerating decarbonization by fostering momentum among users and organizations working toward decarbonization. This environmental system is characterized by the fact that environmental value generated by users' environmental actions can be exchanged for rebate menus offered by organizations (providers). The environmental system also uses environmental points as a medium for exchanging environmental value and rebate menus. Environmental points are a general term for points used within the environmental system, and there can be one or more (e.g., multiple) types. Rebate menus are the objects of exchange that can be exchanged for environmental value.

[0018] The decarbonization system is an example of an environmental system for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and is a system for mainly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. For example, the environmental system may include a system for reducing CO2 emissions, a system for reducing greenhouse gas emissions other than CO2, or a system for other purposes than reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

[0019] In the following, decarbonization points refer to environmental points that include those obtained through actions other than decarbonization, and include points obtained through reducing CO2 emissions, points obtained through reducing greenhouse gas emissions other than CO2, and points obtained through actions other than reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

[0020] Furthermore, decarbonization points are an example of environmental points awarded for the above-mentioned environmental actions.

[0021] An overview of a system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Hereinafter, as an example of an environmental system for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a decarbonization system for primarily reducing emissions of carbon dioxide, which is considered to have a large impact on global warming among greenhouse gases, will be described. Hereinafter, organizations participating in the decarbonization system (i.e., organizations offering rebate programs) will also be referred to as providers.

[0022] The outline of the decarbonization system described below is merely an example, and is not limited to the content described below. For example, the decarbonization system will be described below as an example realized via an app, but is not limited to this. For example, the decarbonization system may be realized as a function provided in a home energy management system (HEMS) owned by a household, a terminal device such as an intercom, or a virtual private assistant (VPA) device such as a smart speaker with a monitor. A smart speaker is a speaker with an AI (artificial intelligence) assistant function that supports interactive voice operation.

[0023] A user selects a decarbonization action menu containing a decarbonization action that the user wants to perform from a decarbonization action menu list containing multiple decarbonization action menus via a decarbonization application (app) for realizing a decarbonization system. Specifically, the app is installed on a terminal device owned by the user, and the decarbonization action menu list is displayed on the terminal device. The user operates the terminal device to select a decarbonization action menu containing a desired decarbonization action from the displayed decarbonization action menu list. The decarbonization action menu associates the type of decarbonization action, the unit time for performing the decarbonization action, information indicating the provider, the point type (type of decarbonization point) earned by the decarbonization action, and the number of decarbonization points awarded for the amount of decarbonization action performed. For example, the user can check the multiple decarbonization actions displayed on the app and information regarding the decarbonization points awarded, and select a decarbonization action that the user wants to perform. Note that there are multiple point types corresponding to the decarbonization action menu, i.e., the type of decarbonization action.

[0024] The multiple point types according to the type of decarbonization action include, for example, points derived from J-Credits based on solar power methodologies and awarded to users when they take environmental action related to renewable energy (here, decarbonization actions); points derived from J-Credits based on various energy-saving methodologies and awarded to users when they take decarbonization actions related to energy saving; points derived from users' self-reporting that they have taken decarbonization actions and awarded to users when they self-report that they have taken decarbonization actions; points derived from the measurement results of the decarbonization actions taken by users and awarded to users according to the measurement results of the decarbonization actions taken by users; points derived from various voluntary credits and awarded to users when they take decarbonization actions corresponding to the voluntary credits; points derived from decarbonization actions in which users select (purchase) goods or services with a lower CFP (Carbon Footprint of Products) than normal purchasing actions and awarded to users when they purchase products or services with a lower CFP; and points derived from unique decarbonization actions desired by providers and awarded to users when they take unique decarbonization actions desired by the provider.

[0025] The types of points are not limited to these.

[0026] The unit time for performing decarbonization actions is a time period set for counting (aggregating) the amount of CO2 reduction, the number of decarbonization actions, the duration of the decarbonization actions, the distance decarbonized, etc. The unit time is set in advance, and examples include, but are not limited to, one day, one week, one month, one year, etc. For example, decarbonization points may be awarded for each unit time according to the amount of decarbonization action taken in that unit time.

[0027] In this way, the decarbonization action menu sets how many points of each type can be earned by performing each decarbonization action. The decarbonization action selected determines whether the decarbonization points awarded to the user are linked to carbon credits. For example, the decarbonization action selected may determine whether the decarbonization points awarded to the user are automatically linked to J-Credits derived from renewable energy electricity, energy-saving J-Credits, voluntary credits rather than J-Credits, or points that cannot be converted into credits at all. Furthermore, since providing a point type for each environmentally contributing corporation would result in too many point types, the point type may include one or more decarbonization points that can only be used in conjunction with an environmentally contributing corporation, i.e., are not compatible with each other and have limited redemption options.

[0028] The decarbonization action menu list may include a decarbonization action menu including decarbonization actions set by the app administrator, or may include a decarbonization action menu including decarbonization actions proposed by providers or users participating in the decarbonization system (for example, a decarbonization action menu set by an environmental contribution corporation). Also, one decarbonization action menu may include two or more decarbonization actions.

[0029] In addition, information about the provider's environmental contribution efforts may be displayed on the terminal device along with the provider's proposed decarbonization actions. In this way, the app allows users to view the provider's environmental contribution efforts within the app. This increases the provider's opportunities to inform users of its organization's environmental contribution or decarbonization efforts, thereby helping to create a sense of environmental contribution among users through these efforts. Furthermore, by posting information about how the provider utilized the emission reductions generated by users who exchanged their points, users can feel a connection with the provider or its brand, products, or services (e.g., characters, idols, etc.), which may increase customer engagement. Furthermore, these efforts can help create a sense of environmental contribution among stakeholders surrounding the provider, such as investors, business partners, and job seekers, in addition to customers, thereby increasing corporate value.

[0030] Note that the decarbonization actions taken by the user are not limited to those included in the decarbonization action menu, and may be, for example, decarbonization actions proposed by the user. They may also be decarbonization actions voluntarily proposed by the user within the app and approved by a provider or app administrator. In this case, the approved provider or administrator will award the user decarbonization points.

[0031] In this specification, decarbonization behavior is an example of environmental behavior related to greenhouse gas emission reduction, and mainly refers to CO2 emission reduction behavior. Furthermore, for example, environmental behavior may include behavior to reduce CO2 emissions, behavior to reduce greenhouse gas emissions other than carbon dioxide, or behavior other than greenhouse gas emission reduction (e.g., environmental contribution behavior described below, behavior to indirectly reduce greenhouse gases, etc.). Greenhouse gases other than carbon dioxide may include, for example, greenhouse gases whose reduction amount is converted into CO2.

[0032] Environmental actions may include actions to reduce greenhouse gases other than carbon dioxide, such as methane, nitrous oxide, and alternative fluorocarbons, and may also include actions to reduce greenhouse gases whose reductions are not converted into CO2 (not quantified).

[0033] Environmental actions may be actions that directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as those described above, or actions that indirectly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as purchasing products with a low carbon footprint or alleviating the tightness of electricity supply and demand (for example, participating in DR (Demand Response)).

[0034] CO2 reductions include both quantifiable and unquantifiable CO2 reductions. When a user selects a decarbonization action, the app monitors the amount of CO2 reductions equivalent to the unquantifiable CO2 reductions. The app then awards the user decarbonization points based on the amount of CO2 reductions. Decarbonization points can be exchanged for rewards offered by various providers. Rebate options can be viewed at any time. Users select the desired reward option from a decarbonization catalog containing multiple reward options offered by various providers via the app. This allows the user to use the decarbonization points accumulated through decarbonization actions. Exchanging decarbonization points for reward options is equivalent to exchanging the reward option for the environmental value generated by the decarbonization action corresponding to the decarbonization points. The amount equivalent to CO2 reductions refers to the number of decarbonization actions that cannot be quantified as CO2 reductions, the duration of the decarbonization action, the distance traveled, and other factors. The amount equivalent to CO2 reductions is determined based on the decarbonization action, not limited to duration or distance, and is determined based on the decarbonization action that cannot be quantified as CO2 reductions.

[0035] In addition to the rebate menu offered by the provider, information regarding the provider's environmental contribution efforts may also be displayed on the terminal device.

[0036] The timing for presenting the provider's environmental contribution efforts to the user within the app may be the first timing when the user selects the decarbonization action as described above, or the second timing when the user selects the rebate menu. The presentation timing may be any timing between the first timing and the second timing, for example.

[0037] The app administrator then applies to an examination agency for the amount of CO2 reduction equivalent to the exchanged decarbonization points. If the application is approved, the amount of CO2 reduction is exchanged for J-Credits. In other words, J-Credits are issued according to the amount of CO2 reduction. These J-Credits are awarded to the companies that offer the rebate menu. This allows companies to acquire J-Credits, which are environmental value according to the decarbonization points.

[0038] In addition, when decarbonization points are exchanged for a rebate menu in the decarbonization system, the provider is required to pay a fee based on the number of decarbonization points, a fee based on the number of exchanges, etc. to the administrator of the decarbonization system.

[0039] Here, when a user exchanges points accumulated by performing decarbonization actions for a rebate menu, the easy exchange of points can further encourage the user to perform decarbonization actions. For example, if there are insufficient points to exchange for a desired rebate menu, it is believed that the user can be further encouraged to perform decarbonization actions by being suggested a decarbonization action to acquire the missing points. Note that Patent Document 1 does not disclose any technology related to further encouraging users to perform decarbonization actions.

[0040] Therefore, the inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research into proposed systems etc. that can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions, and have devised the proposed systems etc. described below.

[0041] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0042] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, components, component placement and connection configurations, steps, and step order shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components not described in independent claims are described as optional components.

[0043] Furthermore, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily an exact illustration. Therefore, for example, the scales of the figures do not necessarily match. Furthermore, in each figure, substantially the same components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0044] Furthermore, in this specification, numerical values ​​and numerical ranges are not expressions that express only the strict meaning, but are expressions that mean that they include a substantially equivalent range, for example, a difference of about several percent (or about 10%).

[0045] Furthermore, in this specification, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" do not refer to the number or order of components unless otherwise specified, but are used for the purpose of avoiding confusion and distinguishing between components of the same type.

[0046] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the decarbonization system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0047] [1. Overview of the decarbonization system] First, the configuration of a decarbonization system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a decarbonization system 1 according to this embodiment. The decarbonization system 1 is a system for further encouraging users to take decarbonization actions, and is a system that can present information that motivates users to try new decarbonization actions, for example, when displaying a decarbonization catalog, in order to improve motivation for decarbonization actions. By presenting such information, it is possible to encourage users to work harder on decarbonization actions that they have been trying to take and improve their motivation to achieve them.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, the decarbonization system 1 includes a proposed system 10 and a terminal device 20.

[0049] The proposal system 10 includes a first acquisition unit 11, a second acquisition unit 12, a determination unit 13, a display control unit 14, and an output unit 15. The proposal system 10 includes a processor, a memory, and the like. The memory is a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM), and can store a program executed by the processor. The first acquisition unit 11, the second acquisition unit 12, the determination unit 13, the display control unit 14, and the output unit 15 are realized by a processor that executes a program stored in the memory, and the like. The proposal system 10 may be realized by, for example, a server device.

[0050] The first acquisition unit 11 acquires first points assigned to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information indicating the user's performance in reducing CO2 emissions. The first acquisition unit 11 may acquire the first points through communication from a device (e.g., a server device) that manages the first points, or may acquire the first points through input by a user or the like. The first acquisition unit 11 may be configured to include a communication circuit (communication module), or may be configured to include a touch panel, buttons, a microphone, etc. The first acquisition unit is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0051] If the proposal system 10 includes a storage unit (not shown) that stores the first points, the first acquisition unit 11 may acquire the first points by reading the first points from the storage unit.

[0052] The CO2 emission reduction information is information about the results of actions taken by a user to reduce CO2 emissions. Specifically, the CO2 emission reduction information includes information about what actions were taken to reduce CO2 emissions, how much of each action was taken, and, in some cases, information about how much CO2 emissions were reduced by each action. The CO2 emission reduction information is information acquired by communication from a terminal device for an energy management system (HEMS) installed in the user's home or the user's terminal device 20.

[0053] The first points are points that are awarded to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information. Points to be awarded to a user are calculated based on the CO2 emission reduction information for a certain decarbonization action, and the calculated points are awarded to the user. The method of calculating the points is not particularly limited, and for example, the points may be calculated using a function that is set in advance according to the CO2 emission reduction amount included in the CO2 emission reduction information, or the points may be calculated using a correlation table between the CO2 emission reduction amount and points. The first points are then calculated by adding the calculated points to the points that the user currently has. The first points are the latest value of the accumulated points that the user has.

[0054] The second acquisition unit 12 acquires the second points required for exchange for the rebate menu. The second points may be target points set by the user, administrator, or provider.

[0055] The second acquisition unit 12 may acquire the second points from a device (e.g., a server device) that manages the second points via communication, or may acquire the second points via input from a user or the like. If there are multiple rebate menus, the second acquisition unit 12 may acquire the second points for each of the multiple rebate menus, or may acquire only the second points for one or more preset rebate menus among the multiple rebate menus. The one or more preset rebate menus may be, for example, rebate menus that the user has registered as favorites, rebate menus that the user has exchanged in the past, or rebate menus that each user has exchanged frequently in a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent month) (i.e., the most popular rebate menus).

[0056] The second acquisition unit 12 may be configured to include a communication circuit (communication module), or may be configured to include a touch panel, buttons, a microphone, and the like.

[0057] The determination unit 13 determines the content of a proposed decarbonization action to be made to the user based on the first points acquired by the first acquisition unit 11 and the second points acquired by the second acquisition unit 12. The determination unit 13 compares the first points with the second points and determines the content of a proposed decarbonization action to be made to the user based on the comparison result. When the first points are insufficient for the second points required to exchange for the rebate menu to be exchanged, the determination unit 13 determines the content of a proposed decarbonization action to be made to acquire the missing points. For example, the determination unit 13 determines whether the first points are insufficient for the second points, and when it determines that the first points are insufficient, determines the content of a proposed decarbonization action.

[0058] The determination unit 13 may determine the content of the proposal using, for example, a table in which the number of missing points is associated with decarbonization actions corresponding to the number of points. Furthermore, the determination unit 13 may determine different content of the proposal depending on, for example, the number of missing points, or may determine the content of the proposal based on the user's past achievements in decarbonization actions. The determination unit 13 may include, in the content of the proposal, a period of time required to acquire the missing points if the proposed decarbonization action is taken. That is, the content of the proposal may include information indicating a period of time required to acquire the missing points. The determination unit 13 may determine the content of the proposal (e.g., a proposal to reduce the number of times the refrigerator is opened and closed) based on user registration information (e.g., the type of equipment the user owns, the user's attributes, etc.) or user information acquired from the user or a third party other than the user (e.g., the number of times the refrigerator is opened and closed frequently).

[0059] The content of the proposal may be decided by the administrator after hearing the provider's wishes, etc. The content of the proposal is an example of information that can motivate people to try new decarbonization actions.

[0060] The display control unit 14 executes control related to the display displayed on the user's terminal device 20. For example, when the user performs an operation to exchange points on the terminal device 20, the display control unit 14 executes control related to the display of multiple rebate menus. Specifically, the display control unit 14 generates control information for displaying the rebate menus and outputs the generated control information to the terminal device 20 by communication via the output unit 15. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a decarbonization catalog. For example, when a user wants to use points, the user operates the terminal device 20 to access the decarbonization system 1. Then, the user selects the rebate menu they want to receive from the decarbonization catalog displayed on the display unit 21 of the terminal device 20 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0061] Here, the decarbonization catalog is a list of multiple items A1 to A3 that indicate the content of the rebate menu, the points required to exchange the rebate menu, and the type of points. Items A1 to A3 shown in FIG. 3 indicate rebate menus that can be exchanged with different types of points. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 3, the decarbonization catalog includes a list of items with different types of points, but is not limited to this. For example, the decarbonization catalog may include a list of multiple items for the same type of points.

[0062] The display of the decarbonization catalog is not limited to the display shown in Fig. 3. For example, the display control unit 14 may generate control information for causing the terminal device 20 to display as shown below, and output the control information to the terminal device 20.

[0063] The decarbonization catalog may further include an estimate of when the points required to exchange for the rebate menu will be accumulated. The time when the points will be accumulated may be determined based on, for example, the user's past point acquisition record.

[0064] For example, the display control unit 14 may prioritize a user's preferred redemption menu from among a plurality of redemption menus and display it on the user's terminal device 20. For example, the display control unit 14 may identify a redemption menu that the user frequently exchanges based on the user's past exchange history, and display the identified redemption menu on the user's terminal device 20 as the user's preferred redemption menu in priority over other redemption menus.

[0065] In addition, displaying with priority may mean displaying it at a higher position in the list in the decarbonization catalog than other reduction menus, or may mean displaying it more prominently than other reduction menus (for example, displaying it in an emphasized manner).

[0066] Furthermore, the display control unit 14 may control the display of the cashback menu according to, for example, the number of first points owned by the user. The display control unit 14 may prioritize a cashback menu requiring a larger number of second points from among the plurality of cashback menus and cause the user's terminal device 20 to display the cashback menu requiring a smaller ... first points from among the plurality of cashback menus.

[0067] Furthermore, the display control unit 14 may present, display, or notify the user of information indicating that the first points can be immediately exchanged for a rebate menu (information encouraging an exchange) when, for example, the first points are greater than the second points. The information encouraging an exchange is an example of a suggestion. The information encouraging an exchange can encourage the user to exchange points for a rebate menu, for example, information encouraging the user to accumulate more points (encouraging an exchange). The information encouraging an exchange can be, for example, information that can further encourage the user to take decarbonization actions.

[0068] Furthermore, the display control unit 14 may display, from among the plurality of rebate menus, a composite menu including two or more rebate menus whose total second points are equal to or less than the first points on the user's terminal device 20. It can also be said that the display control unit 14 displays, on the terminal device 20, a combination of two or more rebate menus that can be exchanged with the first points held by the user.

[0069] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a composite menu. Fig. 4 shows a composite menu when the user's point balance is 3000 points. 3000 points is an example of first points.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 4, the display control unit 14 may display, as a combined menu, a cashback menu A requiring 2000 points for exchange and a cashback menu B requiring 1000 points for exchange. The cashback menu A and the cashback menu B are displayed side by side at the same time. 2000 points and 1000 points are each an example of second points.

[0071] The method of selecting the redemption menu included in the composite menu is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, to select one redemption menu with less than the first point and one redemption menu with the remaining points or less.

[0072] The number of return menus included in the composite menu is not limited to two, and may be three or more.

[0073] Furthermore, the display control unit 14 may cause the display unit 21 to display information to further encourage the user to take decarbonizing actions. Figures 5 and 6 are diagrams showing examples of displays to further encourage the user to take decarbonizing actions.

[0074] 5, the display control unit 14 may cause the display unit 21 to display information indicating the extent to which CO2 emissions have been reduced as a result of the user's decarbonization behavior. The display control unit 14 may cause the display unit 21 to display the amount of CO2 emissions reduced each day. The display control unit 14 may also cause the display unit 21 to display the points earned yesterday, the balance in the decarbonization point account, and the remaining points until the user achieves the target points set by the user. The remaining points may be a value obtained by subtracting the current first points from the points required to exchange for the rebate menu registered as a favorite.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 6, the display control unit 14 may cause the display unit 21 to display the accumulated points awarded for the user's decarbonization actions, the accumulated points awarded for a specified period such as this month's points, the remaining points until the target, information encouraging decarbonization actions for tomorrow (or from tomorrow onwards) such as "Let's do our best tomorrow!", and the expiration date of the points.

[0076] 2 again, the output unit 15 outputs the proposal content determined by the determination unit 13. The output unit 15 outputs the proposal content, for example, via communication to the user's terminal device 20. The output unit 15 is configured to include, for example, a communication circuit (communication module).

[0077] The terminal device 20 is an information terminal carried by a user. The terminal device 20 may be, for example, an information terminal in which the dedicated decarbonization application described above is installed. The terminal device 20 may be a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet, a stationary information terminal such as a PC (personal computer), a HEMS, or a device having a monitor, a device having a VPA function such as a smart speaker connected to the monitor so as to be able to communicate with the monitor, or a device integrated with the monitor so as to be able to communicate with the monitor.

[0078] The terminal device 20 includes a display unit 21 that displays the proposal content from the proposal system, etc. The display unit 21 is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display, but is not limited to this.

[0079] [2. Operation of the decarbonization system] Next, the operation of the decarbonization system 1 configured as above will be described with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation (proposed method) of the decarbonization system 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the operation executed by the proposed system 10.

[0080] 7, first, the first acquisition unit 11 acquires first points (S11), and the second acquisition unit 12 acquires second points (S12). Steps S11 and S12 may be executed, for example, when the user performs an operation to exchange points, or may be acquired periodically. Furthermore, the frequency at which the first points are acquired and the frequency at which the second points are acquired may be the same or different from each other.

[0081] The first acquisition unit 11 outputs the acquired first points to the determination unit 13. The second acquisition unit 12 outputs the acquired second points to the determination unit 13.

[0082] Next, the determining unit 13 determines whether the first points are insufficient relative to the second points (S13). If the first points are less than the second points, the determining unit 13 determines that the points are insufficient.

[0083] Next, when it is determined that the first points are insufficient for the second points (Yes in S13), the determination unit 13 determines the content of a proposed decarbonization action to acquire the insufficient points (S14).

[0084] Next, the output unit 15 outputs information indicating the proposed content of the decarbonization action determined by the determination unit 13 to the terminal device 20 (S15). This allows the display unit 21 to display the proposed content of the decarbonization action to the user. When the user sees the proposed content, it becomes clear what decarbonization action they should take (what they should do to accumulate the necessary points), which can further encourage the user to take decarbonization action.

[0085] If the determination unit 13 determines that the first points are sufficient to match the second points (No in S13), the display control unit 14 notifies the user that the cashback menu can be immediately exchanged (S16). The notification may be, for example, a display or a sound. Alternatively, the display control unit 14 may notify the user that the cashback menu can be immediately exchanged by another method.

[0086] An example of a method for determining the content of a proposal will now be described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the detailed operation (proposal method) of step S14 shown in Fig. 7.

[0087] 8, the determination unit 13 calculates the number of points that is lacking (S21). The determination unit 13 calculates the number of points by subtracting the first points from the second points.

[0088] Next, the determination unit 13 determines whether the calculated number of points is greater than a predetermined value (S22). The predetermined value may be set in advance and stored in a storage unit (not shown) of the proposal system 10. The predetermined value is a threshold value for determining whether to decide on a first proposal content or a second proposal content, which will be described below.

[0089] If the determination unit 13 determines that the number of points is equal to or less than a predetermined value (No in S22), it determines a first proposal content that includes the decarbonization action that the user has taken in the past (S23). The first proposal content is the proposal content for the everyday mode. This makes it possible to further encourage the user's decarbonization action while reducing the burden on the user for the decarbonization action when the point shortfall is small.

[0090] Furthermore, when the determination unit 13 determines that the number of points is greater than a predetermined value (Yes in S22), it determines a second proposal that includes a decarbonization action that has a greater effect on CO2 emission reduction than the first proposal (S24). When the determination unit 13 determines Yes in step S22, it can also be said that the determination unit 13 determines a hard mode proposal, for example, a proposal that includes a decarbonization action that prioritizes earning points. As a result, when there is a large point shortfall, decarbonization actions that can effectively earn points are suggested to the user, which can further encourage decarbonization actions by users who wish to exchange for a desired rebate menu.

[0091] The second proposal may include a decarbonization action that the user has not taken in the past. The second proposal may also include a decarbonization action that the user has not taken in the past and that can reduce CO2 emissions by a predetermined amount or more (i.e., a decarbonization action that can earn more points). The second proposal may also include a decarbonization action that can earn more points than the user has earned in the past.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing another example of the detailed operation (proposed method) of step S14 shown in FIG.

[0093] 9, the determination unit 13 acquires the achievement record of the user's decarbonization behavior (S31). The achievement record of the decarbonization behavior may be acquired from, for example, the terminal device 20, or may be acquired from a server device that manages the achievement record.

[0094] Next, the determination unit 13 determines a decarbonization action plan as the proposal content based on the user's past achievement record of decarbonization actions, the achievement record of decarbonization actions of other users, and a comparison of the achievement record of decarbonization actions of the user and other users (S32). Note that the determination unit 13 may determine the decarbonization action plan as the proposal content based on statistical information on information related to decarbonization. The statistical information may be statistical information provided by a third party organization such as a country, and may be, for example, statistical information listed on a website (https: / / lifestyle.nies.go.jp / ).

[0095] Note that the statistical information may be other than statistical information provided by a third-party organization such as a government, and may be, for example, statistical information held by an administrator that is created based on data on decarbonization actions.

[0096] The determination unit 13 determines a plan including decarbonization actions for each predetermined period, for example, based on the achievement record for each predetermined period. The predetermined period may be, for example, one week, one month, or several months (e.g., six months). The predetermined period may also correspond to a season such as spring, summer, autumn, or winter. Note that the way in which the seasons are divided is not particularly limited; for example, meteorological divisions are exemplified, but other divisions may also be used.

[0097] For example, when the specified period is one month and the proposal content for August is to be determined, the determination unit 13 determines the decarbonization action for the current August based on the achievement record, including the types of decarbonization action taken in past August and the actual CO2 emission reduction amount for each type. The determination unit 13 may set the decarbonization action for the current August to be the same as the decarbonization action for the past August. Furthermore, for example, when the proposal content for September is to be determined, the determination unit 13 determines the decarbonization action for the current September based on the achievement record, including the types of decarbonization action taken in past September and the actual CO2 emission reduction amount for each type. In this way, the determination unit 13 may create a decarbonization action plan by determining each decarbonization action for the specified period based on the achievement record for the specified period.

[0098] 7 illustrates an example in which the operation shown in FIG. 8 or 9 is executed when points are insufficient. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the determination unit 13 may determine the content of the proposal based on the due date for exchanging points for a rebate menu. When the due date is equal to or longer than a predetermined period from the current time, the determination unit 13 may propose a decarbonization action for gradually accumulating points (a decarbonization action for steadily accumulating points over a longer period) compared to when the due date is less than the predetermined period. Furthermore, when the due date is less than the predetermined period from the current time, the determination unit 13 may propose a decarbonization action for accumulating many points in a short period (for example, a hard mode proposal) compared to when the due date is equal to or longer than the predetermined period from the current time. The due date and the predetermined period may be determined by the user, an administrator, or a proposer.

[0099] (Effects, etc.) The invention derived from the disclosure of this specification and the effects and the like obtained by said invention will be described below.

[0100] (Invention 1) The proposal system 10 includes an acquisition unit (e.g., a first acquisition unit 11) that acquires first points granted to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information indicating the user's track record of reducing CO2 emissions, a determination unit 13 that compares the first points with second points required to exchange for the rebate menu to be exchanged and determines the content of a proposal to the user, and an output unit 15 that outputs the determined content of the proposal.

[0101] This allows the proposal content to be determined according to the comparison result between the first point and the second point. Such proposal content can be more likely to encourage the user to take decarbonization actions than proposal content that does not use the comparison result. Therefore, the proposal system 10 can further encourage the user to take decarbonization actions.

[0102] (Invention 2) The determination unit 13 is the proposal system 10 of Invention 1 that, when the first points are insufficient relative to the second points, determines the content of a proposal for a decarbonization action to acquire the insufficient points.

[0103] As a result, if the first points are insufficient, suggested content for decarbonization actions can be proposed to the user. By looking at the suggested content, it becomes clear what decarbonization action to take (what to do to accumulate the necessary points), making it easier for the user to carry out the decarbonization action. Therefore, the proposal system 10 can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions.

[0104] (Invention 3) The determination unit 13 is the proposal system 10 of invention 2 that changes the content of the proposal depending on the number of points that are lacking.

[0105] This allows the content of the proposal to be determined according to the number of points that are lacking, further encouraging users to take decarbonization actions according to the number of points that they have.

[0106] (Invention 4) The proposal content includes a first proposal content including decarbonization actions that the user has taken in the past, and a second proposal content including decarbonization actions that have a greater effect on reducing CO2 emissions than the first proposal content, and the decision unit 13 decides on the first proposal content if the number of points is less than a predetermined value, and decides on the second proposal content if the number of points is more than the predetermined value, in the proposal system 10 of Invention 3.

[0107] This can further encourage users to take the decarbonization actions included in the first proposal content or the second proposal content.

[0108] (Invention 5) The second proposal is the proposed system 10 of invention 4, which includes decarbonization actions that the user has not taken in the past.

[0109] This can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions that they have not taken before.

[0110] (Invention 6) The decision unit 13 is the proposal system 10 of any one of Inventions 1 to 5, which decides the content of the proposal based on the user's past achievements of decarbonization actions.

[0111] This can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions that have been determined based on achievement records.

[0112] (Invention 7) The determination unit 13 is a proposal system 10 of any of Inventions 2 to 5 that determines, as proposal content, a plan of decarbonization actions to acquire the number of points that is lacking, based on the user's past achievements of decarbonization actions for each specified period.

[0113] This can further encourage users to take the decarbonization actions included in the plan.

[0114] (Invention 8) The proposed content is the proposed system 10 of any one of Inventions 1 to 7, which includes the introduction of equipment that has the effect of reducing CO2 emissions.

[0115] This will further encourage users to introduce equipment that has the effect of reducing CO2 emissions.

[0116] (Invention 9) The proposed content is the proposed system 10 of any one of inventions 2 to 5 and 7, which includes information indicating the period for acquiring the missing points.

[0117] This makes it clear how long the suggested decarbonization actions should be continued, which can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions compared to when the period is not displayed.

[0118] (Invention 10) The reward menu is a reward menu that the user has registered as a favorite, and is the proposal system 10 of any one of the inventions 1 to 9.

[0119] This allows users to choose decarbonization actions to exchange for their favorite reward menu items, which can increase the user's motivation to take the decarbonization action. This can further encourage users to take decarbonization actions.

[0120] (Invention 11) There are multiple redemption menus available for exchange, and the proposal system 10 is any of the proposal systems 10 of Inventions 1 to 10, further comprising a display control unit 14 that prioritizes the user's preferred redemption menu from the multiple redemption menus and displays it on the user's terminal device 20.

[0121] This allows users to exchange their first points for their preferred reward options. Making it easier to exchange points for their preferred reward options will increase users' motivation to take decarbonization actions.

[0122] (Invention 12) There are multiple redemption menus available for exchange, and the proposal system 10 is any of the proposal systems 10 of Inventions 1 to 11, further comprising a display control unit 14 that prioritizes and displays on the user's terminal device 20 the redemption menu that requires the most second points from the multiple redemption menus, the more first points the user has.

[0123] This allows a return menu to be displayed according to the user's first points.

[0124] (Invention 13) The proposal system 10 is any of the proposal systems 10 of Inventions 1 to 12, in which there are multiple redemption menus eligible for exchange, and the proposal system 10 further includes a display control unit 14 that displays on the user's terminal device 20 a composite menu including two or more redemption menus from the multiple redemption menus, each of which has a total of less than or equal to the first points.

[0125] This allows the composite menu to be displayed, thereby assisting the user in exchanging the first points for the return menu.

[0126] (Invention 14) This proposal method acquires first points granted to a user based on CO2 emission reduction information indicating the user's track record of reducing CO2 emissions (S11), compares the first points with second points required to exchange for the rebate menu to be exchanged, determines the content of a proposal to the user (S14), and outputs the determined content of the proposal (S15).

[0127] (Invention 15) A program for causing a computer to execute the proposed method described in Invention 14.

[0128] This provides the same effect as the proposed system above.

[0129] (Other embodiments) Although the proposed system according to one or more aspects has been described above based on the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. As long as it does not deviate from the spirit of the present disclosure, various modifications conceivable by a person skilled in the art to the present embodiments and forms constructed by combining components of different embodiments may also be included in the present disclosure.

[0130] For example, the proposal system 10 in the above embodiment may include at least the first acquisition unit 11, the determination unit 13, and the output unit 15.

[0131] In the above embodiments, each component may be configured with dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0132] The order in which the steps in the flowchart are executed is merely an example for specifically explaining the present disclosure, and an order other than the above may be used. Also, some of the steps may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, or some of the steps may not be executed.

[0133] The division of functional blocks in the block diagram is an example, and multiple functional blocks may be realized as a single functional block, one functional block may be divided into multiple blocks, or some functions may be moved to another functional block.Furthermore, the functions of multiple functional blocks having similar functions may be processed in parallel or in time-sharing by a single piece of hardware or software.

[0134] Furthermore, the proposed system 10 according to the above embodiment may be realized as a single device or may be realized by multiple devices. When the proposed system 10 is realized by multiple devices, the components of the proposed system 10 may be distributed among the multiple devices in any manner. When the proposed system 10 is realized by multiple devices, the communication method between the multiple devices is not particularly limited, and may be wireless communication or wired communication. Furthermore, wireless communication and wired communication may be combined between the devices.

[0135] Furthermore, each component described in the above embodiments may be implemented as software or, typically, as an LSI, an integrated circuit. These components may be integrated individually on a single chip, or some or all of them may be integrated on a single chip. While LSI is used here, it may also be referred to as an IC, system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI depending on the level of integration. Furthermore, the integration method is not limited to LSI; it may be implemented using a dedicated circuit (a general-purpose circuit that executes a dedicated program) or a general-purpose processor. It is also possible to use a field programmable gate array (FPGA), which can be programmed after LSI fabrication, or a reconfigurable processor, which allows the connection or settings of circuit cells within an LSI to be reconfigured. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit technology that can replace LSI emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology or a derivative technology, that technology may naturally be used to integrate the components.

[0136] A system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple processing units on a single chip, and is specifically a computer system consisting of a microprocessor, ROM, RAM, etc. The ROM stores computer programs. The system LSI achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates in accordance with the computer programs.

[0137] Another aspect of the present disclosure may be a computer program that causes a computer to execute each of the characteristic steps included in the proposed method shown in any of FIGS.

[0138] Furthermore, for example, the program may be a program to be executed by a computer. Another aspect of the present disclosure may be a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which such a program is recorded. For example, such a program may be recorded on a recording medium and distributed or circulated. For example, the distributed program may be installed in a device having another processor, and the program may be executed by the processor, thereby causing the device to perform each of the above processes. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 10 Proposed System 11 1st Acquisition Department (Acquisition Department) 13 Decision Section 14 Display control unit 15 Output section 20 Terminal equipment

Claims

1. The user ２ CO emissions reduction results ２ an acquisition unit that acquires first points assigned to the user based on emission reduction information; a determination unit that compares the first points with second points required for exchange for the return menu to be exchanged and determines the content of a proposal to the user; an output unit that outputs the determined proposal content, Suggestion system.

2. When the first points are insufficient for the second points, the determination unit determines a proposed content of a decarbonization action to acquire the insufficient points. The recommendation system of claim 1 .

3. The determination unit varies the content of the proposal depending on the number of points that are lacking. The proposal system of claim 2 .

4. The proposal content includes a first proposal content including a decarbonization action that the user has taken in the past, and a CO ２ The second proposal includes decarbonization actions that have a high emission reduction effect. The decision unit decides on the first proposal content when the number of points is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and decides on the second proposal content when the number of points is greater than the predetermined value. The proposal system of claim 3 .

5. The second proposal includes a decarbonization action that the user has not taken in the past. The proposal system of claim 4 .

6. The determination unit determines the content of the proposal based on the user's past achievements of decarbonization actions. The recommendation system of claim 1 .

7. The determination unit determines, as the content of the proposal, a plan of decarbonization actions for acquiring the number of points that is lacking, based on the user's past achievement record of decarbonization actions for each predetermined period. The proposal system of claim 2 .

8. The proposal is CO ２ This includes introducing equipment that has the effect of reducing emissions. The proposal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The proposal content includes information indicating a period for acquiring the missing points. The proposal system according to any one of claims 2 to 5 and 7.

10. The reward menu is a reward menu that the user has registered as a favorite. The proposal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. There are multiple redemption options available, The proposal system further includes a display control unit that causes the user's terminal device to display the rebate menu that the user prefers from among the plurality of rebate menus. The proposal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

12. There are multiple redemption options available, The proposal system further includes a display control unit that causes a rebate menu requiring a larger number of second points to be displayed on the terminal device of the user with priority as the number of first points of the user increases from among the plurality of rebate menus. The proposal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

13. There are multiple redemption options available, The proposal system further includes a display control unit that displays, on the terminal device of the user, a composite menu including two or more of the rebate menus, each of which has a total of the second points equal to or less than the first points, from among the plurality of rebate menus. The proposal system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

14. The user ２ CO emissions reduction results ２ obtaining first points assigned to the user based on the emission reduction information; comparing the first points with the second points required for the redemption menu to be exchanged, and determining the content of the proposal to the user; Output the determined proposal content Proposal method.

15. A program for causing a computer to execute the method according to claim 14.

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