Greenpeace Andino, in collaboration with VML, shares the results of ‘Play for the Future’, a campaign that aims to address the environmental impact of the gaming industry. Launched during Earth Month, this initiative seeks to educate and empower gamers to reduce their carbon footprint.
The gaming industry’s carbon footprint is significant and growing. Microsoft estimates that the average gamer using a high-performance device emits 72 kg of CO2 per year. In the United States alone, gamers emit 24 million tons of CO2 annually. Globally, more than 3 billion gamers contribute to the rising emissions from gaming each year. These figures highlight the urgent need for action within the gaming community to address environmental concerns.
The campaign revolves around a free app that allows gamers to measure and offset their CO2 emissions in real time. The app calculates CO2 emissions based on the user’s hardware specifications and gameplay duration, providing instant feedback on environmental impact. As users play, their emissions are automatically offset through real-world carbon offset projects. In addition to its offsetting capabilities, the platform serves as an educational tool, providing information on the offsetting process and practical tips for reducing energy consumption while gaming.
How it works
The process is simple and easy to use. Players can download and install the app from www.playforthefuture.net. Once installed, the app runs seamlessly in the background during gameplay, continuously measuring emissions. Users have the ability to visualize their personal impact and track the total amount of CO2 neutralized by all participants, fostering a sense of collective action and responsibility.
Global Impact and Industry Transformation
‘Play for the Future’ aims to turn millions of gamers into environmental advocates. The campaign has already reached players in over 18 countries. Hundreds of influencers have joined the initiative, amplifying its message and expanding its reach. The campaign’s success has been so profound that Greenpeace is considering expanding the widget to all games, potentially revolutionizing the industry’s approach to sustainability.
Nacho Oruezabala, Content Director at Greenpeace Andino, emphasizes the campaign’s focus on younger generations: “We aim to provide new tools and reach these generations using their language in the field of entertainment, educating them and promoting greater awareness about this issue. Our goal is to foster new habits and create lasting change in the gaming community.”
The ‘Play for the Future’ initiative represents a pioneering approach to environmental conservation within digital entertainment. By harnessing the power of real-time data and the enthusiasm of the gaming community, Greenpeace is tackling a virtual problem that has very real consequences for our planet.
For more information and to download the app, visit www.playforthefuture.net. Join the movement and be part of the solution – where every game played is a step towards a more sustainable future.
TECHNICAL SHEET
Project: “Play for the Future”
Client: Greenpeace Andino
Agency: VML Health Spain, VML New York, VML São Paulo
Deputy Global CCO: Rafael Pitanguy
CCO of North America: Jason Xenopoulos
Global Head of Craft: Natxo Díaz
Group Creative Directors: Fabio Ozorio, Leo Rincón, Guillermo Aracena, Mason Hedgecoth, João Jackel
Creative Directors: Denon Oliveira, Frederico Teixeira, Eduardo Domínguez
Art Directors: Nico Sierra, Cristina Calabuig, Leonardo Carvalho, Lucas Pessoa, Ester Matas, Jordi Alcoba
Editors: Ana Sofia Chavez, Alair Erlon, Marina Diaz
Technology Company: BrandGaming
Head of Development (technology): Rafael Nunes
Sound Design Company: Jamute
Sound Artists: James Feller, Luiza Pagliarini, Gabriela Alberti
Web Developer: Robinson Buitrago
Influencer Management in Brazil: Druid Creative
CEO: Claudio Lima
CGO: Bernardo Mendes
COO: Evandro Guimarães
CSO: Bruna Pastorini
Planning Director: Pedro Peixoto
Influencer Management: Flavia Guitarrara
