When we started our annual Sustainability Campaign back in 2018, our goal was to encourage a connection between Explorers, local nonprofits, and sustainability efforts. Now, four years and one pandemic later, we’re incredibly inspired by the impact our players and our nonprofit partners are having in their communities.
This year’s campaign looked a little different as we adjusted for the impact COVID. Instead of group cleanups, we embraced individual action, with the idea that many small contributions can make a big impact. Over the course of a week, participants chose to do at least one thing to help fight climate change. Once they had chosen and completed a task, we asked participants to share it on social media using #SustainableWithNiantic.
Over just 3 days, almost 2,000 players in 33 countries recorded their positive impact on the planet, building bee hotels, planting native greenery, and collecting trash in their local neighborhoods. More than 400,000 players activated the avatar sustainability shirt, showing their collective support for our planet. Harry Potter: Wizards Unite also found ways to celebrate the Earth by boosting the amount of plant ingredients, seed, and water that could be found on the map.
Although the player numbers did not quite unlock the first tier of rewards, Niantic was inspired by our players’ actions. We decided to plant 1,000 trees in places needing support as a way to bridge the gap and unlock rewards for players who participated. As a member of the Playing for the Planet Alliance, we love to see gaming and player communities come together to show their support for sustainability. If you’re looking for ways to get more involved, learn more about how you can help support healthy ocean ecosystems.
Suffice to say, we’re incredibly proud of the efforts that player communities made. Through the hard work of everyone participating, this world is a little better off. In addition, we’re happy to announce that the following nonprofit organizations will be receiving $5,000 each:
Congratulations to all who participated in this year’s Sustainability Campaign! Look for more activities as we continue our efforts to support the planet.
- Social Impact Team