Agenda
Action-Minded Strategies for Climate Stress Roundtable: Community, Action, and Empowerment (Presented by the IGDA)
The games industry holds a unique and powerful position in shaping the future of our planet’s climate. Its cultural reach, educational potential through game design, and direct influence on carbon emissions make it one of the most impactful industries of our time. Yet, many professionals within it often feel lost, overwhelmed, or powerless within a system that seems to move forward regardless of environmental consequences.
In this session, climate psychologist, sustainability educator, and former co-chair of the IGDA Climate SIG, Dr. Clayton Whittle, creates space to explore climate challenges within the games industry and the pressures faced by its professionals as they consider their role in building a more sustainable future for games.
Participants will find a supportive environment to discuss these issues, engage with a practical toolkit for sustainable advocacy, and discover actionable strategies for climate-conscious design.
Grounded in the understanding that meaningful climate action requires community, this session emphasizes how collective support empowers real, lasting change across the games industry.
Takeaway
Understand Climate Stress: Recognize how the climate crisis triggers stress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness — and learn why these reactions are both natural and manageable.
Build Resilience: Gain practical tools for coping with climate-related stress in both personal and professional contexts.
Take Meaningful Action: Discover actionable strategies to integrate sustainability and climate-conscious thinking into your work in game development.
Find Community: Connect with others who share your concerns and values, and explore how community can transform climate anxiety into collective empowerment.
Continue the Journey: Leave with pathways for ongoing engagement through the IGDA Climate SIG, including resources, toolkits, and a supportive professional network.
Intended Audience
Game developers interested in how the games industry can be a positive force for climate action. Professionals currently struggling with the personal or professional climate stress or anxiety.