This thesis explores the background and practices of the deeply rooted tradition of grave candles in Slovenia and proposes a sustainable, more heartwarming way of remembrance for modern society. Although Slovenia is a top consumer of grave candles—driven by Catholic Christian tradition, historical community bonds, and societal norms—recent data indicate a gradual decline in consumption. This trend is attributed to growing environmental awareness, diminishing religious observance among younger generations, and evolving family structures. However, globalization, urbanization, and wars have created a new problem: the increasing physical distance between individuals and their family cemeteries.
Employing a system-oriented approach and the Double Diamond framework, this study conducted fieldwork and expert and user interviews to examine the current situation and the needs surrounding the remembrance of loved ones.
The findings highlight four primary motivations for visiting cemeteries. To fulfill them even if in-person visitation is not possible, this study proposed Madoi, an IoT-connected memorial stone lamp. Operating via LoRaWAN and solar energy, the paired devices enable family members to remotely turn on a gentle light at the cemetery from their homes and notify dispersed relatives when their grave is visited in person.
This solution addresses the continuous carbon footprint and plastic waste generated by single-use paraffin and electric candles while fostering a shared sensory experience of remembrance, thus adapting traditional mourning praxis to the realities of a mobile, globalized society.
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