The Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park has produced an awareness-raising video aimed at outdoor sports enthusiasts, particularly trail runners. Titled "No Need to Overdo It, Just Do Enough", the video adopts a light, humorous tone to promote responsible behaviour in natural areas.
The objective? To gently encourage simple yet effective actions that contribute to biodiversity protection, minimise environmental impact, and support a more balanced coexistence between human activities and sensitive ecosystems.
This video forms part of Pilot C of the MONA project, which explores the use of behavioural nudges - subtle prompts to influence behaviour - in promoting sustainable choices.
A message grounded in the local community
Designed to be engaging and memorable, the video was produced with professional filmmakers and features amateur actors from local community theatre groups. Their involvement lends authenticity and a strong sense of place. The original soundtrack, composed specifically for the video, incorporates familiar French musical motifs that resonate with local audiences.
A humorous take on a serious message
Using a series of exaggerated and comical scenes in which the main character overenthusiastically attempts to "do the right thing," the video contrasts these efforts with simpler, more appropriate behaviours—such as staying on marked trails and maintaining the tranquillity of natural surroundings.
This light-hearted approach, inspired by nudge theory, helps convey the message without inducing guilt. The aim is to encourage positive behaviour by making it easy, appealing, and socially rewarding.
Shared with outdoor event organisers
The video is intended for distribution by organisers of outdoor sports events. A strong partnership has been established with La Course des Terrils, a major trail running event in the region. This collaboration extends beyond communication, forming part of a broader strategy to manage runner flows at a dedicated nudge test site, developed in cooperation with local stakeholders.
The forest locations featured in the video were carefully chosen. These are environmentally sensitive areas where the Scarpe-Escaut Park plans to implement real-life nudge experiments starting next year.
A cross-border communication tool
While firmly rooted in the Scarpe-Escaut region, the video also supports the MONA project’s wider cross-border ambitions. It complements other tools developed by European partners and, thanks to its clear format and universal message, offers a flexible resource for other parks and protected areas seeking innovative ways to promote sustainable outdoor behaviour.