Could computer games help us save the planet?

Ali, U

Abstract

EPISODE SUMMARY
The computer games industry is now estimated to be worth over $100 billion. But could this ultimate disruptive industry help us save the planet?

In this episode, I speak to Dr Umran Ali a computer games professor and self-confessed ‘digital native’ from the University of Salford (UK), about how we can potentially use games to educate and inspire around environmental issues.

EPISODE NOTES
As of this year 1 in 3 people now identify as a ‘gamer’. The sector is now 1.5 x bigger than the movie industry and 5 times bigger than the music industry. So the gaming industry is probably worth paying at least some attention to.

This podcast is about leaving no stone unturned in the quest for solutions to the environmental issues we face and with the gaming industry having such a big reach and finance behind it. is there a way we can utilise it to educate and inform about the natural world??
With a move to increasingly realistic simulations, open-worlds and virtual reality some games are even hiring ecologists and geologists to create more accurate representations. The lines between the virtual world and the real world are starting to blur.

In this episode I speak to Dr Umran Ali a computer games professor and self confessed ‘digital native’ from the University of Salford in the UK about the opportunities and also the possible risks associated with a world captivated by games.

This episode really excited me, confused me and even scared me slightly but is exactly the kind of new perspective I want to bring you going forward, and even if you completely disagree I hope it at least makes you think as much as it made me…..

Citation

Ali, U. Could computer games help us save the planet?

• Digital Artefact Type: Audio
• Deposit Date: Sep 18, 2019
• Publisher URL: https://the-disruptive-environmentalist.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-umran-ali-Y9_DCoXt
• Additional Information: Additional Information : The Disruptive Environmentalist - Seeking new solutions to big environmental problems: An exploratory podcast shining a light on innovators and thought leaders taking direct actions to tackle environmental issues.; Running time : 42.27