Entertaining, Fun and Educational Online Experience Aims to Raise Awareness and Motivate Real World Action by Individuals, Communities and Businesses to Combat Global Warming
Starbucks and Global Green USA have teamed up to encourage individuals to “click, play and learn” about global climate change and smart solutions with the launch of Planet Green Game. Through the online game – located at www.planetgreengame.com – players can explore a virtual world and learn how everyday decisions by individuals, cities, schools and businesses can impact the climate and environment. The game offers real-world examples of how individuals can change their own behavior and also influence the actions of community, political and corporate leaders to engage in the effort to stop global warming.
“We hope Planet Green Game illuminates the climate issue for players and inspires them to be part of the solution through simple changes to their everyday decisions,” said Ben Packard, director of Environmental Affairs for Starbucks. “As one of Starbucks many environmental efforts, Planet Green Game reflects our commitment to contributing positively to the environment and we hope our customers will learn what they can do to help.”
“Planet Green Game educates individuals on how they can be part of smart solutions in their own lives – choosing energy efficient products, green building for their homes and more fuel efficient transportation,” said Matt Petersen, president and ceo of Global Green USA, who advised on the content and framework for the game. “Individuals can also join together in urging businesses, cities, schools and political leaders to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through green building, clean transportation and renewable energy.”
In Planet Green Game, players select an avatar (digital character) to explore Evergreen, a fictional city, with six landmarks. Players can choose their mode of transportation and explore these destinations and throughout their journey, learn about environmental factoids and tips that can be incorporated into their daily lives – whether it’s properly servicing a car for improved fuel efficiency or learning techniques to influence local public officials and corporate decision makers.
Two bonus destinations include a virtual movie theater and Starbucks store. At the Planet Green Game movie theater, “green” short films from the Gen Art online movie festival will be screened 24 hours a day. The virtual Starbucks store will also give players the opportunity to vote on environmental priorities the company should consider focusing on and email feedback that will be shared with members of the Corporate Social Responsibility executive team.
Part of Starbucks Ongoing Environmental Initiatives
Planet Green Game is the newest addition to several ongoing environmental initiatives at Starbucks. The company is among the top purchasers of renewable energy certificates in the United States, offsetting 20 percent of its energy use with 100 percent renewable wind energy. Starbucks stores also incorporate sustainable building components into their design and construction with efficient lighting systems and furniture built from wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Additionally, the company introduced the first-ever 10 percent post-consumer recycled fiber hot cups in the U.S. and Canada, which helps reduce Starbucks use of virgin wood fibers in its paper supply chain. Starbucks encourages customers to participate in environmental initiatives through popular in-store programs like the reusable mug $0.10 discount and “Grounds for Your Garden.”
Learn more about Starbucks environmental programs by reading our 2006 Corporate Social Responsibility Report online at http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/csrannualreport.asp.
About Starbucks
Starbucks Coffee Company provides an uplifting experience that enriches people’s lives one moment, one human being, one extraordinary cup of coffee at a time. To share in the experience, visit www.starbucks.com.
About Global Green USA
Global Green USA, the American arm of President Gorbachev’s Green Cross International, has been a national leader in advocating for smart solutions to global warming including green building for affordable housing, schools and communities for more than a decade. Global Green USA has influenced more than $20 billion for green building projects and educates millions of people about climate friendly solutions through its annual Red Carpet/Green Cars Oscars campaign. Global Green is also leading efforts to help rebuild a green New Orleans through its Sustainable Design Competition and green schools initiatives. To learn more visit www.globalgreen.org.
About Gen Art
Gen Art is the leading arts and entertainment organization dedicated to showcasing the best emerging talent in film, fashion, visual arts and music. With offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and San Francisco, Gen Art produces over 120 events annually and has succeeded in launching the careers of many young artists, providing them with high-profile events that welcome industry and new audiences alike. Gen Art was founded in 1993 and has quickly become a leader in championing the talent of a new generation. Its online magazine Gen Art Pulse (www.genartpulse.com) reports on cutting edge social, cultural and style trends.
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