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Gaming expos like the HIT Games Conference1 in Abu-Dhabi are electric—alive with creativity, innovation, and the magic of connection. But there’s a hidden side to this buzz: the environmental footprint. Every event leaves behind piles of waste, from discarded swag to mountains of single-use plastic. As an expert in organising sustainable gaming events, I believe we can -and must- do better.
Let’s reimagine these gatherings, not as resource-heavy spectacles, but as opportunities to lead the gaming industry into a greener future. A sustainable gaming expo is more than an ethical choice; it’s a competitive edge in a market where gamers increasingly value brands that align with their eco-conscious beliefs.
Did you know that the average convention produces over 10,000 kgs of waste in just a few days? That’s equivalent to the weight of a gaming rig every attendee would carry ; and most of it ends up in landfills.
Gaming companies already push boundaries in innovation, so why not apply that creativity to event organisation?
Let’s look at why sustainable gaming expos are the future.
Why sustainability matters in gaming events
Gamers care about the planet
Over 70% of Gen Z gamers expect brands to take a stand on sustainability2. They care about more than just graphics or gameplay - they want to know your values. A sustainable booth or event sends a clear message: your brand is about the future, not just the now.
A greener booth, a bigger impact
Imagine the headlines: [Your Gaming Brand] breaks ground with a zero-waste booth. That kind of initiative earns you media attention, loyalty, and partnerships with organisations prioritising green practices.
Long-term cost efficiency
While sustainable choices might seem expensive upfront, they’re often cost-efficient over time. Reusable booth materials, digital swag, and paperless communication can slash logistics costs for future events.
The pandemic didn’t start the sustainability revolution, but it has put it into hyperdrive, and Gen Z is in the driver’s seat.
How to create a zero-waste booth that stands out
Digital swag packs
Instead of pens, stickers, or T-shirts, offer in-game content, skins, or NFTs. Not only are they waste-free, but they keep players interacting with your brand long after the event ends.
Modular booth designs
Opt for reusable booths made from recycled materials. Companies like Strokes Exhibits LLC3 and Contemporana Eventi4 create stunning designs with minimal environmental impact.
QR codes and AR experiences
Replace printed brochures with digital experiences. Attendees can scan a QR code to explore your games or product offerings interactively.
Make your QR code innovative, companies like QRBRD5 take the QR code experience one step further and offer highly personalised QR code designs, making your brand memorable.
Eco-friendly food and drink stations
If your booth offers refreshments, partner with local vendors to provide sustainable snacks in compostable packaging.
If you are organising a game jam or a tournament, make sure to offer bulk options, rather than individually packed snacks and plastic bottles.
Carbon offset partnerships
Work with organisations like Pachama6 to offset emissions from booth construction, travel, and logistics. You could even gamify this effort by letting attendees vote on where offsets are allocated.
The bigger picture: transforming gaming expos
A sustainable gaming booth isn’t just a marketing initiative; it’s a leadership move. By taking these steps, you’re setting an example for the entire gaming industry. The impact goes beyond reducing waste - it creates conversations, inspires competitors, and positions your brand as a forward-thinking leader.
Imagine walking into HIT Games Conference and seeing an entire floor dedicated to sustainable innovation. Imagine being the brand that started that revolution.
The end game
Gamers demand sustainability. The planet needs it. And as an industry rooted in innovation, we’re uniquely positioned to lead the way.
Food for thought
What’s one change you think could make gaming expos more sustainable?
Sources
HIT Games Conference Abu-Dhabi: https://hgconf.com/abudhabi2024
GenZ takes a stand for sustainability: https://www.forbes.com/sites/gregpetro/2021/04/30/gen-z-is-emerging-as-the-sustainability-generation/
Pachama: https://pachama.com/
