gamescom goes green: New projects for even greater sustainability

More sustainable material management +++ New strong partnerships +++ TRASH GALORE repurposes stand materials and supports local social, cultural and environmental initiatives +++ gamescom forest continues to grow +++ Koelnmesse launches Cologne’s largest urban photovoltaic system in time for gamescom +++ gamescom cares brings together multiple projects

gamescom, the world’s largest gaming event, is ramping up its “gamescom goes green” sustainability initiative launched in 2022. After implementing many significant changes like switching to 100 percent green energy, converting to LED lighting, and updating the food and beverage offerings, efforts are once again underway this year to further reduce CO2 emissions across various areas. These initiatives include new partnerships with the aim of promoting more sustainable material practices.

Sustainable materials management

For the first time this year, exhibitors have the option of using certified Cradle to Cradle carpets. These eco-friendly, recyclable floor coverings are specifically designed for a circular economy. The carpets will be featured in gamescom’s areas and also recommended to exhibitors. Both delivery and pickup are organized to ensure proper recycling. gamescom is also making greater use of reusable rental furniture and reducing single-use materials. For the first time, items that cannot be reused will be mediated to local organizations working on social, cultural or environmental projects in cooperation with TRASH GALORE where they will be put to good use. Together with the company Spende Dein Pfand, gamescom is collaborating with another organization dedicated to sustainable resource management, with the proceeds going to charitable projects worldwide.

gamescom forest strengthens Germany’s green lungs

The gamescom forest project is progressing in the area around Bayreuth in partnership with Treemer®. The goal of the initiative is to increase the resilience of forests against drought and other catastrophes. To date, thousands of trees comprising 27 species have been planted across an area exceeding 26,000 square meters. The mixed forest planting strategy helps to enhance resilience to climate change, improves groundwater replenishment and increases CO2 sequestration. Approximately 730 tons of CO2 have been sequestered so far, with an annual increase of around 25 tons. gamescom visitors can support the gamescom forest again this year by adding just EUR 1 to their ticket purchase or making a direct donation via betterplace. Every contribution helps to strengthen Germany’s green lungs and promote biodiversity.

Koelnmesse establishes energy partnership with E.ON

A wide range of sustainability initiatives are not only being implemented for gamescom, but also throughout the entire Cologne exhibition center, which ranks among the ten largest largest in the world. In a unique, groundbreaking national initiative, Koelnmesse is partnering with E.ON to transform the venue’s central fossil-based energy supply into an integrated smart fossil-free system. Koelnmesse already boasts the largest urban photovoltaic system in Cologne on the roofs of its halls, which also benefits gamescom.

“Our gamescom goes green initiative and Koelnmesse’s comprehensive measures show that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. We are proud of the progress we have achieved this year and thank our partners and visitors for their support. Every contribution helps us make gamescom more sustainable and have a positive impact on our environment,” says Gerald Böse, President & CEO of Koelnmesse.

“Since the launch of gamescom goes green, the world’s largest gaming event has become more climate-friendly each year. Building on the significant initial measures of recent years, we are now taking a closer look at many areas, such as the reuse of carpets and the management of stands and materials. Together with everyone involved in gamescom, we are committed to making a positive impact, whether it’s climate and environmental protection or other aspects of sustainability,” says Felix Falk, Managing Director of game – The German Games Industry Association.

Multiple projects under gamescom cares

Every year, gamescom provides an opportunity for initiatives and companies to showcase their commitment to social responsibility and reach a wider audience through the gamescom cares platform. This year, in addition to existing partners such as Gaming ohne Grenzen, SOS Children’s Villages, krisenchat and Kids of Ukraine, gamescom cares will also feature WeForest, the West German Donor Centre (Westdeutsche Spenderzentrale), the Bone Marrow Donor Center (KMSZ), Bisalina Speedruns, and the devcom Scholarship Programs.

A comprehensive overview of this year’s partners can be found on our website.