The gaming industry is a hot topic in an era where virtual reality meets the real world. As gamers unite, the industry is leveling up its commitment to economic, environmental, and social awareness, implementing measures to safeguard the sustainability of events. From energy-efficient consoles to sustainable packaging, companies are rethinking the lifecycle of products. These initiatives impact a healthier planet and resonate with environmentally conscious gamers who want sustainable practices from their favorite gaming brands.
Microsoft estimates that the average gamer using a high-performance gaming device emits 72 kilograms of carbon emissions annually, which is equivalent to more than 32,000 smartphones charged. But what about in-person gaming events?
Steps have been taken to make gaming more sustainable, like Playing for the Planet, which supports the video games industry to take action to reduce its environmental impact, while Xbox is the first console platform to release dedicated energy and carbon emissions measurement tools designed for game creators.
Sustainability isn't just about energy; it's about waste and water reduction too. Emerging research suggests a rising trajectory in the environmental footprint of the video gaming industry, including extracting materials for gaming consoles and energy demands associated with cloud gaming. However, possibilities exist for enhancing sustainability and for individual gamers at gaming events.There are several benefits to consider when it comes to sustainable events.
Benefits of sustainable events
• Fosters a holistic approach to sustainability, considering economic, environmental, and social impacts
• Strengthens organizational reputation and brand value
• Achieves best practice levels of efficiency and performance
• Defines roles and responsibilities for staff, contractors, and suppliers
• Cuts costs through better energy and waste management
An Event Sustainability Management System (ISO 20121:2024) can elevate your events to be successful and responsible. This standard has been developed for the events industry to help put sustainability first when managing and delivering events. It considers the geography, culture, and social demographics of these events, allowing a long-term view and how to identify all potential impacts early on.
Sustainability is not a trend, but a crucial responsibility the entertainment industry must bear. Gaming events have the potential to inspire positive change globally while uniting a community of people. If you haven't yet joined the green community, there's no better time than now.
Regardless of the size of your business or any potential budget or time constraints, you can still deliver exceptional gaming events with a strong sustainability focus. To find out more about standards and how we can help your company become more resilient, click here.
Follow along for the next blog in the series, "The future is now: Creating our sustainable planet together".
