Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Achievements for The GREAT Project
Partnering with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
In an exciting partnership with UNDP, The GREAT Project collaborated with PlanetPlay to launch the Play2Act initiative, a pioneering effort to explore the role of games in addressing climate and nature challenges. The Play2Act survey, introduced in September, has already garnered over 900,000 responses globally, offering rich insights into public opinions on the intersection of gaming and climate action. This initiative showcases the potential of games as a tool for global engagement on pressing environmental issues. Read more about the Play2Act initiative.
Leading the Conversation at Web Summit 2024
The GREAT Project made a strong impression at this year’s Web Summit in Lisbon in November. A keynote discussion featuring PlanetPlay CSO Jude Ower MBE, Lockwood CEO Halli Bjornsson, and Professor Paul Hollins of Bolton University delved into how games can inspire and mobilize climate action. The event underscored gaming’s unparalleled reach and its ability to engage billions of players in creating a more sustainable world. Read more about our Web Summit participation.
Green Jobs Case Study in Austria
The GREAT Project concluded a year-long Green Jobs case study in Austria, engaging 191 students aged 15+ through workshops, role-playing games, and online discussions. This innovative approach revealed key motivators for youth considering climate-related careers, such as financial security, work-life balance, and job stability. It also highlighted strategies to increase interest in green jobs, including well-paid internships and outreach via modern media platforms. The study informed policy discussions and educational initiatives, emphasizing gender diversity and positioning games as valuable learning tools for promoting climate careers. Watch the video here.
Advocacy for Climate Action at the UN
In April, at a special roundtable with the UNDP, facilitated by PlanetPlay CEO Rhea Loucas and CSO Jude Ower, along with SYBO CEO Mathias Gredal Nørvig leading the conversation from a studio perspective, and UNDP Global Director of Climate Change, Cassie Flynn, we discussed how games can contribute to positive environmental impact. We were also joined by industry leaders from Bolton University, The Danish Trade Council, JSA, Riot Games, Tilting Point, The Raine Group, Unity and Xbox. Learn more about our UN engagement.
Looking Ahead
2024 was a year of progress and inspiration, demonstrating the transformative potential of games in addressing global challenges. As we move into 2025, The GREAT Project remains committed to expanding its impact, fostering new partnerships, and driving innovative research.
Sharing Data Insights Building on the partnership with the UNDP, we will continue to analyse and share valuable data on the perspectives of young people and gamers. These insights will help studios and brand partners make more informed decisions and align with players’ values and GREAT is working with UNDP to surface more insights from the survey.
Together, we’ll continue to unlock the power of games to create a sustainable and inclusive future.
Thank you to all our partners, collaborators, and supporters for making this year unforgettable. Let’s make 2025 even greater!