European Lotteries Takes Bold Steps with New Sustainability

Ready for a greener gaming future? European Lotteries is leading the charge, unveiling ambitious sustainability commitments to set a new standard for the lottery industry. With measurable targets and eco-friendly practices, they are poised to redefine how the lottery sector can drive positive environmental change.

European Lotteries Takes Decisive Action on Climate Change and Sustainability

European Lotteries (EL), the prominent organisation representing the interests of the European lottery sector in EU policymaking, has launched an innovative initiative aimed at reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of its member lotteries. Announced at the EL/WLA Sustainability and Responsible Gaming Seminar in Dublin, this initiative is designed to inspire the entire lottery industry toward a more sustainable future.

The new EL Sustainability Guidelines are tailored to align with global sustainability standards, providing a comprehensive framework for all EL members. The guidelines address a range of operational aspects, from responsible supply chains to player protection and community engagement, signalling a holistic approach to sustainability. EL’s move is not just a gesture; it is a strategic push to demonstrate that environmental responsibility is both achievable and necessary within the gambling sector.

Romana Girandon, President of European Lotteries, expressed the significance of this initiative: “The new commitment demonstrates our proactive approach to addressing climate change, while the updated guidelines ensure that EL members remain at the forefront of environmental and social responsibility.”

Breaking Down the New Sustainability Guidelines

The newly introduced guidelines are built on measurable targets, promoting environmentally sustainable practices across the lottery sector. By focusing on tangible outcomes, EL aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions linked to lottery operations. The guidelines encourage member lotteries to adopt sustainable measures, such as reducing their carbon footprint, implementing energy-efficient processes, and fostering responsible supply chains.

Furthermore, EL is setting an example for player protection and community engagement, ensuring that the drive for sustainability goes hand-in-hand with responsible gaming practices. The hope is to inspire other industry players to adopt similar practices, creating a ripple effect that advances the sustainable lottery model across Europe and beyond.

European Lotteries’ Manifesto for a Better Future

The launch of these sustainability guidelines is part of a broader vision that European Lotteries outlined in its 2024 manifesto released ahead of the upcoming European Parliament elections. The manifesto details eight policies focused on community support, responsible gaming, and regulatory cooperation.

The first policy emphasizes protecting the social roles of national lotteries, urging EU lawmakers to support the lottery model that serves as a “force for good in society.” EL also calls for a crackdown on illegal operators by endorsing the “trusted flaggers” concept from the European Digital Services Act.

Furthermore, the manifesto advocates for fair taxation, recommending that all gambling operators be taxed in the consumer’s country and obtain the necessary licenses. It also emphasizes the need for a risk-based approach to advertising, suggesting stricter advertising rules for high-risk games like online casino operations compared to traditional lotteries.

On the technology front, EL addresses artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting its potential benefits and risks. The manifesto urges careful assessment of AI in the gambling sector, ensuring its use aligns with current EU legislation. Additionally, it champions the Council of Europe’s Convention on the Manipulation of Sports Competitions to combat illegal sports betting.

Lastly, concerning sustainability, the manifesto calls for EU legislators to consider the unique characteristics of lotteries when discussing environmental taxonomy. This holistic approach reflects EL’s commitment to shaping a sustainable, responsible future for the lottery industry.

Setting a Precedent for the Lottery Industry

The annual European Lotteries conference in Belgium earlier this year highlighted the social impact of lotteries and their role as part of Europe’s cultural heritage. By introducing these new sustainability guidelines, European Lotteries aims to set a standard for the entire industry, demonstrating that lotteries can drive both social impact and environmental change.

A Pivotal Step Toward a Greener Gaming Future

European Lotteries’ new sustainability pledges represent a bold, proactive step in redefining the industry’s role in environmental stewardship. By addressing climate change, responsible gaming, and community engagement through comprehensive guidelines, EL is positioning itself as a trailblazer in the lottery sector.

These guidelines, combined with the detailed policies outlined in their manifesto, not only demonstrate EL’s commitment to a sustainable future but also signal a call to action for the industry as a whole. As the lottery sector embraces these changes, the hope is that other gambling entities will follow suit, furthering the global push for a greener, more responsible gaming industry.

The journey towards sustainability may be complex, but European Lotteries’ decisive actions are a game-changer, inspiring a new standard in responsible gaming that prioritizes both the environment and society.