iGEN participated in the seminar ‘Embracing ESG – An ongoing commitment for the Gaming Industry’ at The Pavilion, Westin Dragonara Resort in St. Julian’s on Wednesday 4th October, jointly hosted by Zampa Debattista and GTG.
ESG considerations are no longer just buzzwords; they are becoming the bedrock of successful businesses across sectors. This exclusive breakfast event delved deep into the intersection of ESG values and the gaming domain, shedding light on how embracing these principles isn’t merely an option, but a vital ongoing commitment.
In three key panel debates, industry experts and ESG thought leaders shared experiences, strategies and key observations on to how well iGaming is placed to handle the coming demands of the CSRD; what can be done, what is being done, and what still needs to be done for iGaming companies to contribute to environmental preservation, social well-being, and robust corporate governance.
After an initial breakfast mingle, the summit was opened with a welcome message by Dr Ian Gauci, of GTG, followed by a key note address by Carl Brincat , CEO Malta Gaming Authority on the subject ‘Where is Malta heading? – an ESG code for Gaming licensees.’
The first panel, on the subject ‘Applicability of Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and Non Financial reporting directive. Parallels with the financial services industry and why the gaming sector may be more prepared on ESG than it thinks it is’ and moderated by Zampa Debattista partner Mark Wirth, comprised Reuben Portanier from GTG, Kinga Warda, Chief Officer, International Affairs at the MGA, and Jonna Danlund , Head of Sustainability, Betsson Group. The panel discussed the development of the MGA ESG code of good practice, and the responsibilities and progress iGaming companies have made, especially within responsible gaming and workplace inclusion, and Jonna explained how Betsson were handling their ESG reporting strategy as one of the first iGaming companies to be required to report under the CSRD.
iGEN’s Enrico Bradamante moderated the second panel on the topic ‘How can the gaming Sector address the ‘E’ in ESG – thought leadership panel’ with David Xuerub, Chairperson, Malta ESG Alliance and Christian Sammut, CEO, BMIT Ltd. Among many topics in an engaging discussion, Enrico talked about a number of practical ways iGaming companies were actively working with environmental concerns, and their hands-on involvement in sustainability events.
The third panel discussion, ‘Modelling an ESG compliance programme for a gaming operator, and how to construct measurable reporting outcomes that can be audited.’ Ruben moderated a discussion between Liesbeth Oost, Head of Global Sustainability and IR Manager at Neogames and Mark Wirth. Among other things discussed, Liesbeth explained the work she has been doing to involve all relevant internal stakeholders and external suppliers in setting expectations and the foundations for a functioning ESG reporting strategy, in a constantly evolving corporate structure.
After a short Q&A, Matthew Zampa gave the closing address before a networking coffee session began.
