Information processing method, information processing device, and computer program

Abstract

A server 30 comprises a user behavior information acquisition unit 32, a determination unit 36, and a recommended action information transmission unit 38. The user behavior information acquisition unit 32 acquires a user's behavior information transmitted from an input device 18. The determination unit 36 determines a decarbonization action to be recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization action to be recommended to the user, on the basis of the user's behavior information. The recommended action information transmission unit 38 transmits information about the recommended decarbonization action using the determined output representation to a user terminal 12.

Description

Information processing method, information processing device, and computer program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to data processing technology, and more particularly to an information processing method, an information processing device, and a computer program.

[0002] As a technology for reducing carbon dioxide emissions throughout society, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a technology that calculates the amount of carbon dioxide emissions deemed to have been emitted by a user based on the user's behavioral history, and notifies the user of information regarding the calculated carbon dioxide emissions.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-102659

[0004] In conventional services that encourage users to take actions to reduce carbon dioxide emissions (hereinafter also referred to as "decarbonization actions"), the descriptions of decarbonization actions presented to users are general terms that are targeted at many people. As a result, users have difficulty perceiving decarbonization actions as something that concerns them personally and taking specific action. One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that presents information about decarbonization actions to users using expressions that are tailored to the user.

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, an information processing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an information processing device that acquires user behavioral information, determines decarbonization actions recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization actions recommended to the user based on the user behavioral information, and presents information on the decarbonization actions recommended to the user using the determined output representation to the user.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device including: an acquisition unit that acquires behavioral information of a user; a determination unit that determines, based on the behavioral information of the user, decarbonization actions recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization actions recommended to the user; and an output unit that presents, to the user, information on the decarbonization actions recommended to the user using the determined output representation.

[0007] Any combination of the above components, or any conversion of the expression of the present disclosure between a system, a computer program, a recording medium on which a computer program is recorded, etc., is also valid as an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0008] According to the technology of the present disclosure, it is possible to present information on decarbonization actions to a user in a manner that suits the user.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a decarbonization action support system of a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of a server of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a process for determining an output expression for a recommended decarbonization action. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of a decarbonization action support system of a second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of category information. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a server of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of identifying a user action category and changing the expression for a recommended decarbonization action. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of a decarbonization action support system of a third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of a server of the third embodiment.

[0010] The subject of the device or method disclosed herein includes a computer. The computer executes a program to realize the functions of the subject of the device or method disclosed herein. The computer includes, as its main hardware configuration, a processor that operates according to the program. The type of processor is not important as long as it can realize the functions by executing the program. The processor is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integration (LSI). The electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or may be provided on multiple chips. The multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or may be provided on multiple devices. The program may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a computer-readable read-only memory (ROM), an optical disk, or a hard disk drive, or on a temporary storage medium such as a computer-readable random access memory (RAM). The program may be stored in advance on a recording medium, or may be supplied to a recording medium or storage medium via a wide area communication network including the Internet.

[0011] <Overview of Each Embodiment> In order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions across society as a whole, it is important for each individual to change their awareness and engage in decarbonization behavior. Applications that support users' decarbonization behavior typically present users with options for decarbonization behavior. However, conventional applications present decarbonization behaviors to users in general terms that target many people and are uniform terms that do not change depending on the user. This makes it difficult for users to perceive decarbonization behavior as something that concerns them personally and to take specific action. In other words, conventional applications present decarbonization behaviors to users, but this does not often lead to the users actually performing the decarbonization behaviors. Therefore, each embodiment proposes a method for presenting decarbonization behavior information to encourage behavioral change toward decarbonization.

[0012] Specifically, in the first embodiment, a technology is proposed that determines the output representation of decarbonization actions to be presented to a user to be an output representation that suits the user, rather than a general output representation, so that the user can easily perceive decarbonization actions as something that concerns them personally. In other words, in the embodiment, a technology is proposed that presents information about decarbonization actions to a user using representations that suit the user. This can encourage users to practice decarbonization actions.

[0013] In addition, technologies have been proposed to notify users of their carbon dioxide emissions based on their behavioral history. However, even if users are notified of their own carbon dioxide emissions, this often does not lead to continued efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

[0014] Therefore, in the second and third embodiments, a technology is proposed that uses a user's behavior log to estimate the characteristics that the user values ​​(in other words, the values ​​that the user holds dear) and adjusts the output representation of decarbonization actions based on those characteristics. This can support the user in continuing to engage in decarbonization actions. For example, in the systems of the second and third embodiments, decarbonization actions are presented to the user in a representation that is consistent with the characteristics that the user values. This makes it easier for the user to recognize the benefits of decarbonization actions in a way that is consistent with their own values, thereby increasing their motivation to engage in decarbonization actions.

[0015] <First embodiment> Fig. 1 shows the configuration of a decarbonization action support system 10 according to a first embodiment. The decarbonization action support system 10 is an information processing system in which a plurality of devices work in cooperation with each other to support or encourage users to proactively engage in decarbonization action. The decarbonization action support system 10 includes a user terminal 12, an input device 18, a storage unit 22, and a server 30. The devices in the decarbonization action support system 10 are connected to each other via a communication network, such as a LAN, a WAN, or the Internet.

[0016] 1 includes a block diagram showing the functional blocks of each device in the decarbonization action support system 10. Each block shown in the block diagram in this specification can be realized in hardware terms by elements such as a computer processor (CPU, etc.), memory, electronic circuits, and mechanical devices, and in software terms by a computer program, etc., but here, functional blocks realized by the cooperation of these elements are depicted. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software.

[0017] The user terminal 12 is an information terminal operated by a user and used to communicate information to the user. The user terminal 12 includes, for example, a PC, a smartphone, a home appliance equipped with a display such as a microwave oven or a refrigerator, or a tablet terminal. The user terminal 12 includes a display control unit 14 and a display unit 16. The display unit 16 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display control unit 14 displays various information including text and images on the display unit 16. For example, the display control unit 14 displays information transmitted from the server 30 (such as information on recommended decarbonization actions, which will be described later) on the display unit 16. The user terminal may also have a function to communicate information to the user using means that stimulate the user's five senses, such as vibration or flashing.

[0018] The input device 18 is an information processing device that inputs user behavior information to the server 30. The user behavior information is information resulting from a user's current or past behavior and is information indicating the user's current or past behavior. The input device 18 may be a home appliance such as a lighting device, a refrigerator, or an air conditioner. The input device 18 may also be a device that collects and manages user behavior information from multiple devices. Furthermore, the functions of the input device 18 may be incorporated into the user terminal 12.

[0019] The user behavior information in the first embodiment may include the following information: User location information identified by GPS (Global Positioning System) or the like; User's movement range and movement amount based on multiple pieces of location information; User's movement range, movement amount, and transportation used based on the usage history of a transportation IC card; Device operation log (e.g., driving time of a home appliance, opening time of the door of a home appliance, etc.); Driving history of a private car or the like; Search history and browsing history through SNS (Social Networking Service) or the like; User's schedule information registered in a schedule management service; Purchase history at an EC (Electronic Commerce) store or a store in the real world.

[0020] The user behavior information may also include information indicating the user's state or situation. Information indicating the user's state or situation refers to information arising from the user's mind and body. For example, the information indicating the user's state or situation may include at least one of the user's vital information (also known as vital signs), the user's personal information, attribute information about the user, and user preference information. The attribute information about the user may include the user's age, gender, occupation, and club affiliation information, as well as information about the user's pets and family structure.

[0021] The input device 18 includes a user behavior information transmission unit 20. The user behavior information transmission unit 20 transmits the user behavior information to the server 30 in response to a request from the server 30, or autonomously or periodically.

[0022] The storage unit 22 stores data that is referenced or updated by the server 30. The function of the storage unit 22 may be included in the server 30.

[0023] The server 30 is an information processing device that presents recommended decarbonization actions to the user, and can also be considered a decarbonization action support device. The server 30 in the first embodiment is a server installed in the cloud, but as a modified example, it may be a home server installed in the user's home. Furthermore, the functions of the server 30 may be incorporated into equipment (e.g., a HEMS controller) installed in the user's home. Furthermore, the functions of the server 30 may be incorporated into the user terminal 12.

[0024] The server 30 includes a user behavior information acquisition unit 32, an estimation unit 34, a determination unit 36, and a recommended behavior information transmission unit 38. A computer program implementing the functions of these multiple functional blocks may be installed in the storage of the server 30. The processor of the server 30 may perform the functions of these multiple functional blocks by reading this computer program into main memory and executing it.

[0025] The user behavior information acquisition unit 32 acquires the user behavior information transmitted from the input device 18 .

[0026] The estimation unit 34 estimates decarbonization actions (hereinafter also referred to as "recommended decarbonization actions") recommended to the user based on the user behavior information acquired by the user behavior information acquisition unit 32. The estimation unit 34 passes predetermined basic expression information of the recommended decarbonization actions to the determination unit 36. The basic expression of the recommended decarbonization actions is a general output expression that is independent of the user, and is, for example, a basic format of expression that is managed in advance in association with the decarbonization action.

[0027] The estimation unit 34 may also classify the user behavior information acquired by the user behavior information acquisition unit 32 into at least one category and estimate, as recommended decarbonization actions, decarbonization actions that are previously associated with and managed in that category. The categories may be preset according to the type of decarbonization action. By previously categorizing decarbonization actions into categories and linking the user behavior information to the categories, it is possible to avoid a deterioration in the accuracy of estimating recommended decarbonization actions. An example of a mechanism for categorizing user behavior information is to previously associate feature words (keywords) for estimating decarbonization actions with each category, analyze the user behavior information through morphological analysis, or the like, and extract the feature words. Then, the feature words associated with the categories and the feature words extracted from the user behavior information are compared with each other, and a category to which feature words identical or similar to the feature words of the user behavior information belong is determined as the classification category.

[0028] When using category classification to estimate recommended decarbonization actions, it is preferable that at least two different categories are assigned to recommended decarbonization actions, and that recommended decarbonization actions for a user are estimated by combining recommended decarbonization actions assigned to a first category with recommended decarbonization actions assigned to a second category different from the first category.

[0029] For example, if the user behavior information acquisition unit 32 acquires user behavior information such as "drinking canned beer," first, a morphological analysis is performed on the user behavior information to extract the feature words "beer," "can," and "drink" as feature words. Then, by using a first category with a pre-set main category of "beverages" and a subcategory of "beer," and a second category with a pre-set main category of "materials" and a subcategory of "cans," and combining these, the system infers a decarbonization recommended behavior of drinking (switching to) "beer" (first category: beverages) made from "cans" (second category: materials) that have been decarbonized in the refining process.

[0030] The determination unit 36 ​​determines the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action estimated by the estimation unit 34 based on the user's state or behavior, and changes (in other words, customizes) the basic representation of the recommended decarbonization action estimated by the estimation unit 34 to a representation suitable for the user. The determination unit 36 ​​determines the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's state or behavior indicated by the user behavior information, or may determine the output representation based on the user's state or behavior obtained from other information sources. The output representation of the recommended decarbonization action may be a text, image, or audio representation to indicate the content of the recommended decarbonization action to the user. Therefore, in the present disclosure, customizing the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action from the basic representation includes changing the wording to a representation suitable for the user, or changing the basic representation expressed in text to a representation format other than text, such as an image or audio.

[0031] The recommended action information sending unit 38 presents the information on the recommended decarbonization action to the user by sending the information on the recommended decarbonization action in the output representation determined by the determining unit 36 ​​to the user terminal 12.

[0032] 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 30 according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the operation of the decarbonization action support system 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0033] The user behavior information transmitting unit 20 of the input device 18 transmits one or more pieces of behavior information related to the user to the server 30. The user behavior information acquiring unit 32 of the server 30 receives one or more pieces of behavior information related to the user transmitted from the input device 18 (S10). The user behavior information acquiring unit 32 may periodically request the input device 18 to provide behavior information related to the user.

[0034] The estimation unit 34 of the server 30 estimates a recommended decarbonization action for the user based on one or more pieces of behavioral information related to the user (S11). The determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 changes the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action from the basic representation to a representation based on the user's state or behavior (S12). The recommended action information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 transmits information on the recommended decarbonization action with the changed output representation to the user terminal 12 (S13). The display control unit 14 of the user terminal 12 displays the information on the recommended decarbonization action with the changed output representation transmitted from the server 30 on the display unit 16.

[0035] The mechanism for estimating the recommended decarbonization action in S11 of FIG. 2 is not particularly limited, and publicly known technology may be used. An example of the mechanism for estimating the recommended decarbonization action will be described. For example, the estimation unit 34 may identify a decarbonization action that the user has not performed from a universal decarbonization action list, and estimate the identified decarbonization action as a recommended decarbonization action.

[0036] The processing steps in this example are as follows: (Step 1) The server 30 pre-stores a universal decarbonization action list in which multiple decarbonization action candidates for recommendation are listed by type. The types of decarbonization actions may include, for example, energy-saving actions, the introduction of energy-saving home appliances, traveling by public transportation, and composting. (Step 2) The estimation unit 34 identifies the type of decarbonization action that the user has already taken from the user's behavior information. (Step 3) The estimation unit 34 identifies, from the multiple decarbonization actions in the decarbonization action list, a decarbonization action that does not fall under the type of decarbonization action that the user has already taken, and estimates the identified decarbonization action as a recommended decarbonization action.

[0037] The universal decarbonization action list may use public information released by national governments. For example, it may include the contents of the "30 Zero Carbon Actions" action list published by the Ministry of the Environment of Japan. The decarbonization actions not implemented by the user include decarbonization actions not entered by the user. The listing by type in step 1 above may involve classifying each decarbonization action according to specified criteria and associating the resulting type with each decarbonization action. The granularity of this classification is not important. For example, the text of the decarbonization action may be subjected to morphological analysis to classify the decarbonization actions according to a certain pattern, such as walking, reading, or shopping. It may also be classified by the magnitude of CO2 emissions or the magnitude of reduction associated with the decarbonization action. It may also be classified by the average number of times each decarbonization action is performed.

[0038] Furthermore, it is preferable that the user's behavior information includes the date and time of the behavior. By linking and managing the user behavior information and the date and time information of the behavior, it is possible to calculate the frequency of the user's efforts over a predetermined period based on a comparison with past behavior history and estimate whether the target behavior is habitual for the user. If the user is engaging in habitual behavior, the likelihood of deviating from that behavior is low. In this way, there is a high probability that the recommended decarbonization behavior can be maintained, and therefore, when changing the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior in the determination unit 36 ​​described below, the degree of change can be adjusted without making a large change, thereby supporting the continuation of the recommended decarbonization behavior.

[0039] In step 3, a decarbonization action that does not correspond to the type of decarbonization action recently performed by the user may be identified from among the multiple decarbonization actions in the decarbonization action list. The recently performed decarbonization action may be a decarbonization action performed by the user within a predetermined period (for example, up to one month) prior to the execution of the process for estimating the recommended decarbonization action.

[0040] An example of the process of determining the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action in S12 of FIG. 2 will be described below. <Example 1> The determination unit 36 ​​may include a product name or service name based on the user's state or action in the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action. FIG. 3 shows an example of the process of determining the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action. In the example of FIG. 3, the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action selected in S11 is "avoid alcohol." The basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action may be an expression predetermined in the decarbonization action list.

[0041] The storage unit 22 stores a plurality of predetermined output lists corresponding to a plurality of keywords related to decarbonization actions. Each output list is a list of candidate words (hereinafter also referred to as "conversion candidate words") for converting keywords in basic expressions of decarbonization actions. The conversion candidate words include, for example, specific product names or service names.

[0042] In the example of FIG. 3 , the determination unit 36 ​​extracts the keyword "alcohol" included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior, "avoid alcohol," and reads out an output list corresponding to the keyword "alcohol" from the storage unit 22. Specific product names "AA beer," "BB beer," and "CC sour" are defined in the output list corresponding to the keyword "alcohol." Note that the alcohol production process, i.e., processes such as fermentation and distillation, consumes a lot of energy and emits carbon dioxide, so the act of "avoiding alcohol" corresponds to a decarbonization behavior.

[0043] The memory unit 22 also stores the user's behavior history. The user's behavior history may be an accumulation of user behavior information (including user status information) previously provided from the input device 18. The determination unit 36 ​​refers to the user's behavior history stored in the memory unit 22. In the example of FIG. 3 , the user's behavior history includes information on items stored in the refrigerator by the user, such as "500 ml can of AA beer" and "350 ml can of AA beer."

[0044] The determination unit 36 ​​changes the output expression of the decarbonization action from the basic expression based on the output list and the behavioral history. In the example of Fig. 3, the determination unit 36 ​​changes the output expression of the decarbonization action to "avoid AA beer" by replacing the keyword "alcohol" in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action with the conversion candidate word "AA beer" included in the behavioral history from among multiple conversion candidate words defined in the output list.

[0045] <Example 2> The determination unit 36 ​​may include a numerical value based on the user's state or behavior in the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior. In other words, the determination unit 36 ​​may include information on a specific amount or unit in the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior. For example, in the example of FIG. 3 , the determination unit 36 ​​may use a numerical value included in the behavior history to change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior to "avoid 500 ml cans of AA beer."

[0046] Also, suppose the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action is "close the refrigerator door quickly." The storage unit 22 may store a correspondence between a keyword of the basic expression and a numerical value that replaces the keyword. In this example, "within 3 seconds" may be stored in association with the keyword "quickly." The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action to "close the refrigerator door within 3 seconds." Furthermore, the average time the refrigerator door is open (5 seconds in this case) may be stored in the user's behavior history in the storage unit 22. The determination unit 36 ​​may calculate a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined percentage (20% in this case) from the average time the refrigerator door is open, and change the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action to "close the refrigerator door within 4 seconds."

[0047] Example 3 The determination unit 36 ​​may identify a lifestyle scene of the user related to the recommended decarbonization action. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the identified lifestyle scene.

[0048] Specifically, the determination unit 36 ​​may identify a user's life scene based on the user's behavioral information and behavioral history. For example, the storage unit 22 may be configured to associate and manage predetermined keywords for recommended decarbonization actions with life scenes related to the keywords. The determination unit 36 ​​extracts keywords from the user's behavioral information and behavioral history acquired as input information through morphological analysis or the like, and compares the extracted keywords with keywords for recommended decarbonization actions previously managed in the storage unit 22 to identify life scenes related to the keywords based on identical or similar keywords. Furthermore, if the basic expression for the recommended decarbonization action is "limit alcohol consumption," the determination unit 36 ​​may identify "year-end party" or "evening drinks" indicated in the user's schedule information as the user's life scene from life scenes associated with the keyword "alcohol." In this case, the determination unit may change the output expression for the recommended decarbonization action to "limit alcohol consumption at the year-end party" or "limit evening drinks," for example.

[0049] <Example 4> The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's preference information. The user's preference information may be included in the user's behavior information. Here, the basic representation of the recommended decarbonization action is "avoid alcohol." The user's preference information indicates that the user likes whiskey. In this case, the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action to "avoid whiskey" by replacing the keyword "alcohol" included in the basic representation with "whiskey," the type of alcohol indicated in the user's preference information.

[0050] <Example 5> The determination unit 36 ​​may estimate a location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the estimation result of the location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action.

[0051] For example, the user's behavior information may include information indicating that the user travels by car from point a to point b as a commuting behavior. Furthermore, the basic expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior may be "using public transportation." In this case, the determination unit 36 ​​may estimate, based on map information, Station A, which is the nearest station to point a, and Station B, which is the nearest station to point b, and estimate the distance from Station A to Station B as the location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization behavior. Furthermore, the determination unit 36 ​​may identify the mode of transportation from Station A to Station B (here, the subway) by route search. The determination unit 36 ​​may then change the output expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior to "travel by subway from Station A to Station B."

[0052] Example 6 The determination unit 36 ​​may estimate other people with whom the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action. The determination unit 36 ​​may include information about the estimated other people in the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action.

[0053] For example, the user's behavior information may include information indicating that the user participated in a neighborhood association event. Furthermore, the basic expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior may be "pick up trash." In this case, the determination unit 36 ​​may infer that the other person with whom the user will perform the recommended decarbonization behavior is a member of the neighborhood association. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior to "pick up trash with members of the neighborhood association."

[0054] Example 7 The determination unit 36 ​​may estimate the user's fatigue level. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior based on the estimation result of the user's fatigue level.

[0055] For example, the user's behavior information may include the user's sleeping time or the number of steps taken. The determination unit 36 ​​may estimate that the shorter the user's sleeping time indicated by the user's behavior information, the higher the user's fatigue level. Furthermore, the determination unit 36 ​​may estimate that the greater the user's number of steps indicated by the user's behavior information, the higher the user's fatigue level.

[0056] The determination unit 36 ​​may reduce the amount or time of the recommended decarbonization action as the user's fatigue level increases. For example, if the user's fatigue level is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action is "walk two stations," the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action to "walk one station." Alternatively, if the user's fatigue level is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action is "walk for one hour," the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output expression of the recommended decarbonization action to "walk for 30 minutes."

[0057] Example 8 The determination unit 36 ​​may acquire information about events related to the region where the user will be performing the recommended decarbonization action. The determination unit 36 ​​may include the acquired event information in the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action.

[0058] Specifically, the determination unit 36 ​​may identify at least one of the user's address, place of residence, and place of work as the area where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action, based on the user's behavior information. The determination unit 36 ​​may acquire keywords included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action and related words obtained by replacing the keywords using predetermined conversion rules (e.g., a thesaurus, etc.). The determination unit 36 ​​may acquire information about events related to the recommended decarbonization action from among multiple events related to the area where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action, by searching using the keywords and the related words.

[0059] For example, suppose the basic expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior is "recycle." The determination unit 36 ​​may use the keyword "recycle" and the related word "flea market" to acquire "flea market held on August 1st" as information about an event related to the area where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization behavior and related to the recommended decarbonization behavior. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output expression for the recommended decarbonization behavior to "attend the flea market held on August 1st."

[0060] <Example 9> The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's family composition. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's family composition indicated by the user's behavior information. For example, the basic representation of the recommended decarbonization action is "cut back on sweets and alcohol." If the user is single (unmarried), the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action to "cut back on sweets and alcohol." On the other hand, if the user lives with his wife, the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action to "my wife cuts back on sweets and alcohol."

[0061] <Example 10> The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's schedule information. The determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's schedule information indicated by the user's behavior information. For example, assume that the basic representation of the recommended decarbonization action is "pick up trash" and the user's schedule information includes "go swimming at Shonan Beach." The determination unit 36 ​​may include the location of the planned action indicated by the user's schedule information in the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action. For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may change the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action to "pick up trash at Shonan Beach."

[0062] According to the decarbonization action support system 10 of the first embodiment, recommended decarbonization actions for a user can be presented to the user using easy-to-understand expressions that match the user's state or behavior. This makes it easier for the user to perceive decarbonization actions as something that concerns them personally, and effectively encourages the user to take decarbonization actions.

[0063] The first embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. The first embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component or each treatment process of the first embodiment, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0064] A modified example of the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the user's behavior information includes behavior information in real space. However, as a modified example, the user's behavior information may include behavior information in virtual space in addition to behavior information in real space. The behavior information in virtual space may include user's behavior information in the game space or metaverse, and may include, for example, information indicating the behavior and status of a character or avatar operated by the user. The user behavior information acquisition unit 32 of the server 30 may acquire user's behavior information in virtual space transmitted from a server (such as a game management server) (not shown) that manages user's behavior in virtual space.

[0065] When both user behavior information in the real space and user behavior information in the virtual space are acquired as user behavior information, the estimation unit 34 of the server 30 may prioritize the user behavior information in the real space over the user behavior information in the virtual space and estimate recommended decarbonization actions for the user. When only behavior information in the virtual space is acquired as user behavior information, the estimation unit 34 may estimate recommended decarbonization actions for the user based on the behavior information in the virtual space. For example, the estimation unit 34 may estimate, as recommended decarbonization actions, decarbonization actions that do not correspond to the types of decarbonization actions of the user in the virtual space from among multiple decarbonization actions in a predetermined decarbonization action list.

[0066] Another modified example of the first embodiment will be described. The recommended behavior information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 may transmit audio information indicating the recommended carbon-free behavior in a manner suited to the user (e.g., "avoid beer") to the user terminal 12. The user terminal 12 may receive the audio information transmitted from the server 30 and output the audio indicated by the audio information from a speaker (not shown).

[0067] Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described, focusing on differences from the first embodiment. Components of the second embodiment that are the same as or equivalent to those of the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and descriptions that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0068] Fig. 4 shows the configuration of the decarbonization action support system 10 of the second embodiment. Fig. 4 also includes a block diagram showing the functional blocks of each device of the decarbonization action support system 10. The decarbonization action support system 10 of the second embodiment also includes a user terminal 12, an input device 18, a storage unit 22, and a server 30.

[0069] The user behavior information of the second embodiment may include the user behavior information of the first embodiment, and may include, for example, the following information: Device operation log (for example, information such as the operating time of a home appliance, the opening time of the door of the home appliance, and the operation history of an air conditioner (set temperature, frequency of use, and duration of use)) User location information identified by GPS (Global Positioning System) or the like User's movement range and amount of movement based on multiple pieces of location information User's movement range, amount of movement, and mode of transport used based on the usage history of a transportation IC card Usage status of public transport (for example, section, frequency of use, duration of use, mode of transport used, etc.) Driving history of a private car or the like Search history and browsing history through SNS (Social Networking Service) or the like User's schedule information registered in a schedule management service Purchase history at an EC (Electronic Commerce) store or a real-world store (for example, items, amounts, etc.) Purchase history using a flea market app (for example, items, amounts, etc.)

[0070] The storage unit 22 stores predetermined category information. FIG. 5 shows an example of the category information. The category information is information that associates multiple categories related to lifestyle activity objectives (economy, recycling, health, etc. in FIG. 5 ) with words or phrases characteristic of each category (hereinafter also referred to as "characteristic words"). The categories can also be considered as classifications based on characteristics that the user values. The characteristics that the user values ​​can also be considered as the user's values, and the user's lifestyle activity objectives are estimated based on these values, etc.

[0071] Returning to FIG. 4, the server 30 includes a user behavior information acquisition unit 32, an estimation unit 34, a classification unit 35, a determination unit 36, and a recommended behavior information transmission unit 38.

[0072] The classification unit 35 classifies the user's behavior or state indicated by the user behavior information into at least one of the multiple categories indicated by the category information stored in the storage unit 22. The category into which the user's behavior or state indicated by the user behavior information is classified is hereinafter also referred to as a "user behavior category."

[0073] The determination unit 36 ​​determines an output representation of the decarbonization action recommended to the user based on the user action category. The determination unit 36 ​​can also be referred to as a representation adjustment unit, and adjusts the output representation of the decarbonization action recommended to the user to a representation different from the basic representation based on the user action category. For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may change the amount of carbon dioxide emissions indicated in the information before the change of the decarbonization action recommended to the user (i.e., the basic representation) to the amount of something other than carbon dioxide. The thing other than carbon dioxide may include at least one of money, resources, energy, and calories.

[0074] The recommended action information sending unit 38 presents the user with information on the recommended decarbonization action to be taken by the user in the output representation determined by the determining unit 36 ​​.

[0075] 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 30 according to the second embodiment. Hereinafter, the operation of the decarbonization action support system 10 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0076] The user behavior information transmission unit 20 of the input device 18 autonomously transmits one or more pieces of user behavior information to the server 30 when a predetermined user operation is input or when predetermined conditions are met. The user behavior information acquisition unit 32 of the server 30 receives one or more pieces of user behavior information transmitted from the input device 18 (S20). The estimation unit 34 of the server 30 estimates recommended decarbonization behaviors for the user based on the one or more pieces of user behavior information (S21). The processes of S20 and S21 in FIG. 6 are similar to the processes of S10 and S11 in FIG. 2.

[0077] The classification unit 35 of the server 30 classifies the user's behavior or state into one or more user behavior categories based on one or more pieces of user behavior information (S22). For example, the classification unit 35 may extract words from the user behavior information using morphological analysis or the like, and identify categories in the category information associated with the extracted words (characteristic words) as user behavior categories. The words extracted from the user behavior information and the words designated as characteristic words in the category information may be nouns or verbs.

[0078] The determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 changes (in other words, customizes) the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action for the user to an expression that matches the user action category (S23). The recommended action information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 transmits the information on the recommended decarbonization action whose expression has been changed in S23 to the user terminal 12 via the communication network (S24). The display control unit 14 of the user terminal 12 causes the display unit 16 to display the information on the recommended decarbonization action whose expression has been changed in S23, transmitted from the server 30.

[0079] An example of the processing of S22 and S23 in Fig. 6 will be described. Fig. 7 shows an example of specifying a user behavior category and changing the representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior. "X kgCO2e" included in the basic representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior indicates the amount of carbon dioxide emissions. This value can be said to be the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by the recommended decarbonization behavior, or the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduction that can be achieved if the user performs the recommended decarbonization behavior.

[0080] In Case 1, the classification unit 35 identifies the category "economy," which is pre-associated with the feature word "household account book" included in the user behavior information, as the user behavior category. When the user behavior category is determined to be "economy," the determination unit 36 ​​converts the carbon dioxide emissions included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior into a monetary amount. For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions (X kgCO2e) into a monetary amount (e.g., 100 yen) corresponding to the emissions according to a predetermined conversion rule.

[0081] In Case 2, the classification unit 35 identifies the category "recycling" that is pre-associated with the feature word "recycling promotion app" included in the user behavior information as the user behavior category. The classification unit 35 also identifies the category "economy" that is pre-associated with the feature word "selling furniture" included in the same user behavior information as the user behavior category. The determination unit 36 ​​changes the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior based on the user behavior category "economy" or "recycling."

[0082] In the example of FIG. 7 , the determination unit 36 ​​converts the carbon dioxide emissions included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior into the amount of resources (which may be in units of kg or liters) according to the user behavior category "recycling." For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions (X kgCO2e) into the amount of wood corresponding to that amount (e.g., 1 kg) according to a predetermined conversion rule. Furthermore, if the user behavior information includes the weight of items recycled by the user, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions to the weight of items recycled by the user.

[0083] In Case 3, the classification unit 35 identifies the categories "economy" and "health" that are pre-associated with the feature word "traveling by foot" included in the user behavior information as user behavior categories. The determination unit 36 ​​changes the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior based on the user behavior category "economy" or "health."

[0084] 7 , the determination unit 36 ​​converts the carbon dioxide emission amount included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior into the amount of calories according to the user behavior category "health." For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emission amount (X kgCO2e) into the amount of calories corresponding to the emission amount (e.g., Y kcal) according to a predetermined conversion rule. Furthermore, if the user behavior information includes a distance traveled by the user on foot (or information from which the distance can be calculated), the determination unit 36 ​​may calculate the amount of calories consumed by the walking movement and convert the carbon dioxide emission amount to the amount of calories consumed by the walking movement.

[0085] In Case 4, the classification unit 35 identifies the categories "economy" and "energy" that are pre-associated with the characteristic word "solar panel" included in the user behavior information as user behavior categories. The determination unit 36 ​​changes the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior based on the user behavior category "economy" or "energy."

[0086] In the example of Fig. 7, the determination unit 36 ​​converts the carbon dioxide emissions included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action into an amount of energy according to the user action category "energy." For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions (X kgCO2e) into an amount of energy corresponding to the emissions (e.g., Z kWh) according to a predetermined conversion rule. The determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action into a monetary amount (e.g., an electricity bill corresponding to the carbon dioxide emissions) according to the user action category "economy."

[0087] In Case 5, the classification unit 35 identifies the category "recycle," which is pre-associated with the feature word "my bag" included in the user behavior information, as the user behavior category. The classification unit 35 also identifies the category "economy," which is pre-associated with the feature word "shopping" included in the same user behavior information, as the user behavior category. The determination unit 36 ​​changes the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior based on the user behavior category "economy" or "recycle."

[0088] 7, the determination unit 36 ​​converts the carbon dioxide emissions included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization behavior into a monetary amount according to the user behavior category "economy." For example, the determination unit 36 ​​may convert the carbon dioxide emissions (X kgCO2e) into the price (e.g., 5 yen) of a plastic bag to be purchased if a user does not have a reusable bag.

[0089] The decarbonization action support system 10 of the second embodiment can present recommended decarbonization actions to a user using output expressions that are in line with the characteristics the user prioritizes (in other words, the user's values). For example, if the user prioritizes "economy," the system provides the user with recommended decarbonization action information that includes monetary amounts, and if the user prioritizes "recycling," the system provides the user with recommended decarbonization action information that includes resource amounts. This makes it easier to arouse the user's interest in decarbonization actions and also supports the user's continued efforts to engage in decarbonization actions.

[0090] The second embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. The second embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component or each treatment process of the second embodiment, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0091] A modified example of the second embodiment will be described. The recommended action information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 may transmit recommended decarbonization action information including the reason for changing the information on the recommended decarbonization action from the basic expression to the output expression to the user terminal 12, thereby presenting the reason for the change to the user. The reason for the change may include the user action category identified by the classification unit 35. For example, the recommended decarbonization action information may include, as the reason for the change, "The characteristic you value is 'economy,' so it is expressed in terms of the amount of money," or "The characteristic you value is 'recycling,' so it is expressed in terms of the amount of resources."

[0092] Another modification of the second embodiment will be described. The recommended action information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 may further present to the user the amount of carbon dioxide emission reduction that can be achieved if the recommended decarbonization action is performed. For example, the recommended action information transmission unit 38 may transmit to the user terminal 12 recommended decarbonization action information that includes both the amount of carbon dioxide emission reduction included in the basic expression of the recommended decarbonization action (e.g., "X kg CO2e" in FIG. 7) and an expression after modification according to the user action category (e.g., "100 yen equivalent amount" in FIG. 7). When the user action category is "economy," the recommended decarbonization action information provided to the user terminal 12 may be, for example, "reduce carbon dioxide emissions (X kg CO2e, 100 yen equivalent)."

[0093] Another modification of the second embodiment will now be described. The classification unit 35 of the server 30 may estimate a category that the user particularly values ​​from among multiple categories based on multiple pieces of user behavior information. The determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 may determine an output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user based on the category that the user particularly values.

[0094] For example, assume that five pieces of user behavior information shown in Case 1 to Case 5 in FIG. 7 are acquired as the plurality of pieces of user behavior information. The classification unit 35 counts the number of times each category is selected as a user category. In the example of FIG. 7 , the category "economy" is selected five times, the category "recycle" is selected two times, the category "health" is selected once, and the category "energy" is selected once. The classification unit 35 may estimate that the category "economy," which has been selected the most times as a user category, is the category that the user particularly values. The determination unit 36 ​​may determine the output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user based on the category "economy," which the user particularly values, and may, for example, change the amount of carbon dioxide emissions to a monetary amount.

[0095] Third Embodiment A third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described, focusing on differences from the previously described embodiments. Components of the third embodiment that are the same as or equivalent to those of the previously described embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals as those of the previously described embodiments, and descriptions that overlap with those of the previously described embodiments will be omitted as appropriate.

[0096] 8 shows the configuration of a decarbonization action support system 10 according to a third embodiment. The decarbonization action support system 10 according to the third embodiment includes a community terminal 50 and an input device 56 in addition to the components of the decarbonization action support system 10 according to the second embodiment.

[0097] The community terminal 50 is an information terminal operated by a member of the community to which the user belongs. The community terminal 50 may be an information terminal owned by an individual member of the community, or may be an information terminal shared by multiple members of the community. The community may be, for example, a company, a department, a hobby club, a home, or a neighborhood association.

[0098] The community terminal 50 includes a display control unit 52 and a display unit 54. The display unit 54 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display control unit 52 displays various information including text and images on the display unit 54. For example, the display control unit 52 displays information transmitted from the server 30 on the display unit 54.

[0099] The input device 56 is an information processing device that inputs community activity information to the server 30. The community activity information is information resulting from current or past activities of the community and is information indicating current or past activities of the community. The community activity information can also be said to be information indicating current or past activities of community members. The community activity information may include the user behavior information of the first embodiment or the user behavior information of the second embodiment. If the community is a home, the input device 56 may be a device that controls home appliances or household equipment. Furthermore, the functions of the input device 56 may be incorporated into the community terminal 50.

[0100] The input device 56 includes a community activity information transmission unit 58. The community activity information transmission unit 58 transmits the community activity information to the server 30 in response to a request from the server 30, or autonomously or periodically.

[0101] The server 30 of the third embodiment further includes a community activity information acquisition unit 31 in addition to the components of the server 30 of the second embodiment. The community activity information acquisition unit 31 acquires community activity information transmitted from the input device 56. The estimation unit 34 estimates decarbonization actions recommended for the community (members of the community) based on the community activity information. The estimation unit 34 passes a predetermined basic expression of the decarbonization actions recommended for the community to the determination unit 36.

[0102] The classification unit 35 classifies the behavior or status of the community (community members) indicated by the community activity information into at least one of the multiple categories indicated by the category information stored in the storage unit 22. The category into which the behavior or status of the community indicated by the community activity information is classified is hereinafter also referred to as a "community activity category."

[0103] The determination unit 36 ​​determines the output representation of the decarbonization action recommended for the community based on the community activity category. In other words, the determination unit 36 ​​adjusts the output representation of the decarbonization action recommended for the community to a representation different from the basic representation based on the community activity category. As in the second embodiment, the determination unit 36 ​​may change the amount of carbon dioxide emissions indicated in the information before change of the decarbonization action recommended for the community (i.e., the basic representation) to the amount of something other than carbon dioxide.

[0104] The recommended action information sending unit 38 further presents to the user information on the recommended decarbonization actions for the community in the output representation determined by the determining unit 36 ​​.

[0105] 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 30 according to the third embodiment. Hereinafter, the operation of the decarbonization action support system 10 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0106] The user behavior information sending unit 20 of the input device 18 sends one or more pieces of user behavior information to the server 30 either when a predetermined user operation is input or when predetermined conditions are satisfied autonomously. The user behavior information acquiring unit 32 of the server 30 receives the one or more pieces of user behavior information sent from the input device 18 (S30). The community activity information sending unit 58 of the input device 56 sends the one or more pieces of community activity information to the server 30 either when a predetermined operation is input by a community member or when predetermined conditions are satisfied autonomously. The community activity information acquiring unit 31 of the server 30 receives the one or more pieces of community activity information sent from the input device 56 (S31).

[0107] The estimation unit 34 of the server 30 estimates recommended decarbonization actions for the user based on one or more pieces of user behavior information (S32). The estimation unit 34 also estimates recommended decarbonization actions for the community based on one or more pieces of community activity information (S33). The mechanism for estimating recommended decarbonization actions in S32 and S33 may be similar to the mechanism for estimating recommended decarbonization actions in S11 of FIG. 2 in the first embodiment.

[0108] The classification unit 35 of the server 30 classifies the user's behavior or status into one or more user behavior categories based on one or more pieces of user behavior information (S34). The classification unit 35 also classifies the community's behavior or status into one or more community activity categories based on one or more pieces of community activity information (S35). The processes of S34 and S35 may be similar to the process of S22 in FIG. 6 of the second embodiment.

[0109] The determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 changes the basic expression of the decarbonization action recommended for the user to an expression that matches the user action category (S36). The determination unit 36 ​​also changes the basic expression of the decarbonization action recommended for the community to an expression that matches the community activity category (S37). The processes of S36 and S37 may be similar to the process of S23 in FIG. 6 of the second embodiment.

[0110] The recommended action information sending unit 38 of the server 30 sends the information on the recommended decarbonization actions for the user, the expression of which was changed in S36, to the user terminal 12. The recommended action information sending unit 38 also sends the information on the recommended decarbonization actions for the community, the expression of which was changed in S37, to the user terminal 12 (S38). The display control unit 14 of the user terminal 12 causes the display unit 16 to display the information on the recommended decarbonization actions for the user and the information on the recommended decarbonization actions for the community, which were sent from the server 30.

[0111] The recommended action information sending unit 38 of the server 30 may further send the information on the recommended decarbonization action for the community, the expression of which has been changed in S37, to the community terminal 50. The display control unit 52 of the community terminal 50 may cause the display unit 16 to display the information on the recommended decarbonization action for the community sent from the server 30.

[0112] The decarbonization action support system 10 of the third embodiment also achieves the same effects as the decarbonization action support system 10 of the second embodiment. Furthermore, the decarbonization action support system 10 of the third embodiment can present decarbonization actions to the user using output expressions that are in line with the characteristics that are emphasized by the community to which the user belongs (in other words, the values ​​of the community), thereby more effectively supporting the user in continuing to engage in decarbonization actions.

[0113] The third embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. The third embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component or each treatment process of the third embodiment, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0114] A modification of the third embodiment will be described. As described in the modification of the second embodiment, the classification unit 35 of the server 30 may estimate, from among a plurality of categories, a category that the user particularly values, based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the user. Furthermore, the classification unit 35 may estimate, from among a plurality of categories, a category that the community particularly values, based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the community, using an algorithm similar to that used for estimating a category that the user particularly values.

[0115] As described in the modified example of the second embodiment, the determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 may determine the output representation of the decarbonization action recommended to the user based on a category that the user particularly values. Similarly, the determination unit 36 ​​may determine the output representation of the decarbonization action recommended to the community based on a category that the community particularly values.

[0116] The recommended action information sending unit 38 of the server 30 may determine whether the category that the user particularly values ​​matches the category that the community particularly values. If the two match, the recommended action information sending unit 38 may transmit to the user terminal 12 recommended decarbonization action information for the user, the output expression of which has been determined based on the category that the user particularly values, and may also transmit to the community terminal 50 recommended decarbonization action information for the community, the output expression of which has been determined based on the category that the community particularly values, and present it to community members.

[0117] If the two do not match, the recommended decarbonization action information presented to the user may be changed. Specifically, if the two do not match, the recommended action information transmission unit 38 may transmit to the user terminal 12 both the recommended decarbonization action information for the user, the output expression of which has been determined based on the category that the user particularly values, and the recommended decarbonization action information for the community, the output expression of which has been determined based on the category that the community particularly values. By presenting the user with both the decarbonization action with an output expression that matches the category that the user particularly values, and the decarbonization action with an output expression that matches the category that the community particularly values, it is possible to more effectively support the user in continuing to engage in decarbonization actions.

[0118] Another modification of the third embodiment will be described. As described in the modification, the classification unit 35 of the server 30 may estimate, from among multiple categories, a category that the community particularly values ​​based on multiple pieces of behavioral information of the community. When the user's behavioral information is classified into multiple categories, the determination unit 36 ​​of the server 30 may determine the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior information for the user based on the category that the community particularly values. For example, as shown in Case 2 of FIG. 7 , when the user categories are classified into "economy" and "recycling" and the category that the community to which the user belongs particularly values ​​is "recycling," the output representation of the recommended decarbonization behavior information for the user may be determined based on the category "recycling," and, for example, carbon dioxide emissions may be changed to the amount of resources.

[0119] Another modified example of the third embodiment will now be described. The recommended action information transmission unit 38 of the server 30 may output the decarbonization action information recommended for the user to a terminal that can be viewed by members belonging to the same community as the user. For example, the recommended action information transmission unit 38 may transmit to the community terminal 50 one or both of the recommended decarbonization action information whose output expression has been changed based on the user action category and the recommended decarbonization action information whose output expression has been changed based on a category that the user particularly values, and display them on the display unit 54 of the community terminal 50.

[0120] Any combination of the above-described embodiments and multiple modifications is also useful as an embodiment of the present disclosure. A new embodiment resulting from a combination combines the effects of the combined embodiments and modifications. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that the functions to be performed by each component recited in the claims can be realized by each component shown in the embodiments and modifications, either alone or in combination.

[0121] <Supplementary Notes> The above description of the embodiments and variations discloses the following technologies. [Technology 1-1] An information processing method in which an information processing device acquires user behavior information, estimates decarbonization actions recommended for the user based on the user behavior information, determines an output representation of the recommended decarbonization actions based on the user's state or behavior, and presents information on the recommended decarbonization actions using the determined output representation to the user. This information processing method makes it possible to present the decarbonization actions recommended for the user to the user using easy-to-understand representations that match the user's state or behavior. This makes it easier for the user to perceive decarbonization actions as something that applies to them, and effectively encourages the user to take decarbonization actions. [Technology 1-2] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, in which a lifestyle scene of the user is identified based on the recommended decarbonization actions, and the output representation of the recommended decarbonization actions is changed based on the identified lifestyle scene. This information processing method makes it possible to present decarbonization actions to the user using representations that match the user's lifestyle scene. [Technology 1-3] The information processing method according to Technology 1-1, further comprising including a numerical value based on the user's state or behavior in an output representation of the recommended decarbonization action. This information processing method allows the decarbonization action to be presented to the user using easy-to-understand language that is in line with the user's state or behavior. [Technology 1-4] The information processing method according to Technology 1-1, further comprising including a product name or service name based on the user's state or behavior in an output representation of the recommended decarbonization action. This information processing method allows the decarbonization action to be presented to the user using easy-to-understand language that is in line with the user's state or behavior. [Technology 1-5] The information processing method according to Technology 1-1, further comprising changing the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's preference information. This information processing method allows the decarbonization action to be presented to the user using easy-to-understand language that is in line with the user's preferences. [Technology 1-6] The information processing method according to Technology 1-1, further comprising estimating a location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action, and changing the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the location where the action will be performed.According to this information processing method, decarbonization actions can be presented to a user using easy-to-understand language that is appropriate for the location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action. [Technology 1-7] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, which estimates other people with whom the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action, and includes information about the other people in an output representation of the recommended decarbonization action. According to this information processing method, decarbonization actions can be presented to a user using easy-to-understand language that includes information about the other people with whom the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action. [Technology 1-8] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, which estimates the user's fatigue level, and changes the output representation of the recommended decarbonization action based on the user's fatigue level. According to this information processing method, it is possible to present to the user recommended decarbonization actions that are appropriate for the user's fatigue level and that are feasible (or easy to perform). [Technology 1-9] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, which acquires information about events related to the area where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action, and includes information about the events in an output representation of the recommended decarbonization action. According to this information processing method, decarbonization actions can be presented to a user using easy-to-understand expressions that include information about events related to the location where the user will perform the recommended decarbonization action. [Technology 1-10] The information processing method described in Technology 1, in which an output expression of the recommended decarbonization action is changed based on the user's family composition. According to this information processing method, decarbonization actions can be presented to a user using easy-to-understand expressions that are suited to the user's family composition. [Technology 1-11] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, in which an output expression of the recommended decarbonization action is changed based on the user's schedule information. According to this information processing method, decarbonization actions can be presented to a user using easy-to-understand expressions that are suited to the user's schedule. [Technology 1-12] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, in which the user's behavior information includes behavior information in real space and behavior information in virtual space, and the decarbonization action recommended for the user is estimated by prioritizing the behavior information in real space over the behavior information in virtual space. According to this information processing method, it is possible to support a user in actually engaging in decarbonization actions in real space.[Technology 1-13] The information processing method described in Technology 1-1, which classifies the acquired user behavioral information into preset categories according to the type of decarbonization behavior, and determines decarbonization behaviors recommended to the user based on the category classification results. This information processing method can avoid a deterioration in the accuracy of estimating recommended decarbonization behaviors. [Technology 1-14] The information processing method described in Technology 1-13, which assigns at least two or more different categories to the recommended decarbonization behaviors, and estimates decarbonization behaviors recommended to the user by combining the recommended decarbonization behaviors assigned to a first category with the recommended decarbonization behaviors assigned to a second category different from the first category. This information processing method makes it easier to recommend decarbonization behaviors that are suitable for the user. [Technology 1-15] An information processing device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires user behavior information; a unit that estimates decarbonization actions recommended to the user based on the user behavior information; a determination unit that determines an output representation of the recommended decarbonization actions based on the user's state or behavior; and an output unit that presents information on the recommended decarbonization actions to the user using the output representation determined by the determination unit. This information processing device can present the decarbonization actions recommended to the user to the user using easy-to-understand representations that match the user's state or behavior. This makes it easier for the user to perceive decarbonization actions as something that concerns them personally, and can effectively encourage the user to take decarbonization actions. [Technology 1-16] A computer program that causes an information processing device to perform the following steps: acquire user behavior information; estimate decarbonization actions recommended to the user based on the user behavior information; determine an output representation of the recommended decarbonization actions based on the user's state or behavior; and present information on the recommended decarbonization actions to the user using the determined output representation. This computer program can present recommended decarbonization actions to users using easy-to-understand expressions that match the user's condition or behavior, making it easier for users to see decarbonization actions as something that concerns them personally, effectively encouraging users to take decarbonization actions.

[0122] [Technology 2-1] An information processing method in which an information processing device acquires user behavioral information, classifies the user behavioral information into at least one category from among multiple categories related to lifestyle behavioral objectives, determines an output representation of decarbonization actions recommended for the user based on the category into which the user behavioral information is classified, and presents information on the recommended decarbonization actions using the determined output representation to the user. This information processing method allows decarbonization actions to be presented to the user using an output representation that is consistent with the characteristics the user values ​​(in other words, the user's values), thereby supporting the user's continued efforts to engage in decarbonization actions. [Technology 2-2] The information processing method described in Technology 2-1, in which the carbon dioxide emissions indicated in the information on the decarbonization actions recommended for the user before the change are changed to the amount of something other than carbon dioxide, based on the category into which the user behavioral information is classified. This information processing method allows decarbonization actions to be presented to the user using an output representation that is consistent with the characteristics the user values. [Technology 2-3] The information processing method described in Technology 2-1, in which the reason for determining the output representation is further presented to the user. This information processing method allows the user to recognize the reason for determining the output representation. [Technology 2-4] The information processing method described in Technology 2-1, further presenting to the user the amount of carbon dioxide emission reduction that can be achieved if the user implements the recommended decarbonization behavior. This information processing method allows the user to recognize the effects of implementing decarbonization behavior. [Technology 2-5] The information processing method described in Technology 2-1, estimating which of the multiple categories the user values ​​based on multiple pieces of behavioral information about the user, and determining an output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user based on the category the user values. This information processing method allows the user to be presented with decarbonization behavior using an output representation that is consistent with the characteristics the user values.[Technology 2-6] The information processing method according to Technology 2-1 further acquires activity information of a community to which the user belongs, classifies the community activity information into at least one of the plurality of categories, determines an output representation of decarbonization actions recommended for the community based on the category into which the community activity information is classified, and further presents information on the decarbonization actions recommended for the community using the determined output representation to the user. This information processing method can present decarbonization actions to the user using an output representation that is in line with the characteristics emphasized by the community to which the user belongs (in other words, the values ​​of the community), thereby supporting the user's continued efforts to engage in decarbonization actions. [Technology 2-7] An information processing method according to Technology 2-6, comprising: estimating a category that the user values ​​from among a plurality of categories based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the user; estimating a category that the community values ​​from among the plurality of categories based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the community; and, if the category that the user values ​​differs from the category that the community values, presenting to the user both information on decarbonization actions recommended for the user, the output representation of which is determined based on the category that the user values, and information on decarbonization actions recommended for the community, the output representation of which is determined based on the category that the community values. This information processing method can present to the user both decarbonization actions with output representations that are consistent with the characteristics that the user values ​​and decarbonization actions with output representations that are consistent with the characteristics that the community to which the user belongs values, thereby more effectively supporting the user in continuing to engage in decarbonization actions. [Technology 2-8] The information processing method according to Technology 2-6, comprising estimating a category that the community values ​​from among the plurality of categories based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information of the community, and when the behavioral information of the user is classified into a plurality of categories, determining an output representation of a decarbonization action recommended to the user based on the category that the community values. This information processing method makes it possible to appropriately determine an output representation of a decarbonization action recommended to the user.[Technology 2-9] The information processing method described in Technology 2-6 outputs information on decarbonization actions recommended for the user to a terminal viewable by members of the community. This information processing method makes the decarbonization actions recommended for the user known to members of the same community as the user, thereby more effectively supporting the user's continued efforts to take decarbonization actions. [Technology 2-10] An information processing device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires user behavioral information; a classification unit that classifies the user behavioral information into at least one category out of multiple categories related to lifestyle behavioral objectives; a determination unit that determines an output representation of the decarbonization actions recommended for the user based on the category into which the user behavioral information is classified; and an output unit that presents the information on the recommended decarbonization actions to the user using the determined output representation. This information processing device can present decarbonization actions to the user using output representations that are consistent with the characteristics that the user values, thereby supporting the user's continued efforts to take decarbonization actions. [Technology 2-11] A computer program for causing an information processing device to perform the following: acquire user behavioral information, classify the user behavioral information into at least one category from a plurality of categories related to lifestyle behavioral objectives, determine an output representation of decarbonization actions recommended for the user based on the category into which the user behavioral information has been classified, and present information on the recommended decarbonization actions using the determined output representation to the user. This computer program can present decarbonization actions to the user using output representations that are in line with characteristics that the user values, thereby supporting the user's continued efforts to engage in decarbonization actions.

[0123] The technology of the present disclosure can be applied to, for example, information processing devices and information processing systems.

[0124] 10 Decarbonization action support system, 22 Storage unit, 30 Server, 31 Community activity information acquisition unit, 32 User action information acquisition unit, 34 Estimation unit, 35 Classification unit, 36 Decision unit, 38 Recommended action information transmission unit.

Claims

1. An information processing method in which an information processing device acquires user behavioral information, determines decarbonization actions recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization actions recommended to the user based on the user behavioral information, and presents information on the decarbonization actions recommended to the user using the determined output representation to the user.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein, in determining an output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user, the output representation is determined based on the state or behavior of the user.

3. The information processing method according to claim 2, further comprising identifying a related life scene of the user based on the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user, and changing the output representation based on the identified life scene.

4. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein a numerical value based on the state or behavior of the user is included in the output representation.

5. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein the output expression includes a product name or service name based on the user's state or behavior.

6. The information processing method of claim 2, further comprising: (1) changing the output representation based on preference information of the user; (2) estimating a location where the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user will be performed, and changing the output representation based on the location; (3) estimating others who will perform the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user together with the user, and including information about the others in the output representation; (4) estimating the user's fatigue level, and changing the output representation based on the user's fatigue level; (5) obtaining information about events related to the area where the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user will be performed, and including information about the events in the output representation; (6) changing the output representation based on the user's family composition; (7) changing the output representation based on the user's schedule information; and (8) performing a process selected from the group consisting of any combination of (1) to (7).

7. The information processing method of claim 2, wherein the user's behavioral information includes behavioral information in real space and behavioral information in virtual space, and the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user is estimated by prioritizing the behavioral information in real space over the behavioral information in virtual space.

8. The information processing method of claim 2, further comprising classifying the acquired user behavioral information into pre-set categories according to the type of decarbonization behavior, and determining decarbonization behaviors recommended for the user based on the results of the category classification.

9. The information processing method of claim 8, wherein at least two different categories are assigned to the decarbonization actions recommended to the user, and the decarbonization actions recommended to the user are estimated by combining decarbonization actions assigned a first category with decarbonization actions assigned a second category different from the first category.

10. The information processing method of claim 1, wherein in determining the output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user, the user's behavioral information is classified into at least one category out of a plurality of categories related to lifestyle behavior objectives, and the output representation of the decarbonization behavior recommended to the user is determined based on the category into which the user's behavioral information is classified.

11. The information processing method described in claim 10, wherein the carbon dioxide emissions indicated in the pre-change information of the decarbonization behavior recommended for the user are changed to the amount of something other than carbon dioxide based on the category into which the user's behavioral information is classified.

12. The information processing method of claim 10, further comprising: acquiring activity information of a community to which the user belongs; classifying the community activity information into at least one of the plurality of categories; determining an output representation of decarbonization actions recommended for the community based on the category into which the community activity information is classified; and further presenting to the user information on the decarbonization actions recommended for the community using the determined output representation.

13. The information processing method of claim 12, further comprising: estimating a category that the user values ​​from among the plurality of categories based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the user; estimating a category that the community values ​​from among the plurality of categories based on a plurality of pieces of behavioral information about the community; and, if the category that the user values ​​differs from the category that the community values, presenting to the user both information on decarbonization actions recommended for the user, the output representation of which is determined based on the category that the user values, and information on decarbonization actions recommended for the community, the output representation of which is determined based on the category that the community values.

14. The information processing method of claim 12, further comprising estimating a category that the community values ​​from among the multiple categories based on multiple pieces of behavioral information of the community, and, if the user's behavioral information is classified into multiple categories, determining an output representation of decarbonization behavior recommended for the user based on the category that the community values.

15. The information processing method according to claim 12, wherein information on the decarbonization actions recommended for the user is output to a terminal that can be viewed by members belonging to the community.

16. An information processing device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires user behavior information; a determination unit that determines a decarbonization action recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization action recommended to the user based on the user behavior information; and an output unit that presents information on the decarbonization action recommended to the user using the determined output representation to the user.

17. A computer program for causing an information processing device to perform the following steps: acquire user behavioral information; determine decarbonization actions recommended to the user and an output representation of the decarbonization actions recommended to the user based on the user behavioral information; and present information on the decarbonization actions recommended to the user using the determined output representation to the user.

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