Project Green courts Malta’s gaming sector with “smart park” plans
Project Green, the agency responsible for developing and managing Malta’s green open spaces, says the island’s betting and gaming industry could help modernise its parks, offering companies a high-profile way to back environmental and social commitments.
Gaming’s ESG ambitions move beyond the office
Malta’s regulator, the Malta Gaming Authority, has been encouraging the island’s operators to report on environmental, social, and governance performance through its voluntary ESG Code of Good Practice. In 2025, the Authority recognised 17 licensees with ESG Code Approval Seals, signalling a push for initiatives that go beyond internal policies. For companies seeking community-facing projects, tree planting, habitat restoration and tech-enabled public amenities offer a straightforward way to show impact locally, not just in annual disclosures and presentations to staff, visitors and nearby residents.
On environmental projects, Adrian Xuereb, Project Green’s chief corporate strategy and transformation officer, explained to SiGMA News: “Collaboration with Project Green could allow tech and gaming firms to actively contribute to environmental sustainability through tree planting, habitat restoration, and the creation of climate-resilient green spaces, while simultaneously enhancing the public experience.”
For gaming companies competing for staff, Mr Xuereb said greener neighbourhoods can be part of the attraction. “Tech and gaming companies can benefit from proximity to, or collaboration with, Project Green’s developments by gaining access to high-quality, well-designed green spaces that enhance employee well-being, creativity, and productivity. These may also be important factors in attracting and retaining talent,” he explained.
ESG meets public space
“Some of Project Green’s spaces could also serve as venues for corporate events, team-building activities, and community engagement, while offering opportunities for ESG-aligned initiatives,” he added.
On park activations, he said: “Project Green is always open to exploring ways to activate its parks and support the needs of the public and the islands’ communities.” He added: “Perhaps these initiatives could allow gaming and tech partners to pilot new formats, engage diverse audiences, and create memorable experiences that merge digital culture with the outdoors.”
He ended with a call for proposals from industry. “Project Green is always eager to explore new ideas and collaborations that bring value to both our communities and our green open spaces. We consider our communities as our partners and would welcome the input of our tech and gaming communities on how related activities could further activate our parks and create engaging and innovative experiences,” Mr Xuereb said.
A 10-minute walk ambition
“The idea is that every household should be within the radius of a 10-minute walk from an open space,” Mr Xuereb said, describing a target that has become a yardstick for new projects. He argued that parks should feel stitched into daily life rather than treated as destinations.
“To achieve this, larger parks and undertakings are being complemented with opportunities to convert small, underutilised plots, road verges, and residual urban spaces into pocket parks or gardens with seating areas, or shaded rest zones,” he said.
“Where possible, available spaces are designed to serve multiple purposes, including exercise, recreation, biodiversity support, and community gatherings,” Mr Xuereb said.
In a mature iGaming jurisdiction like Malta, collaborations between industry and public agencies such as Project Green could signal the next phase of ESG, moving from reporting frameworks to lived, community-level outcomes.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, but your next deal could be. From 02 to 05 November 2026 the city becomes the heartbeat of global iGaming when SiGMA World opens its gates. With 30,000 delegates, 1,200+ sponsors and exhibitors, and 550+ expert speakers, history is calling at the mother of all conferences.
