Report reflects growth, responsibility, and transition toward renewables in Europe’s online gambling sector
The European Betting and Gaming Association (EGBA) has released its 2024 Annual Sustainability Report, providing a comprehensive overview of its member operators’ economic contributions, safer gambling efforts, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments. The figures highlight continued momentum in regulated online gambling across Europe, paired with deeper investment in sustainable practices and player protection.
€3.8 Billion in Tax Contributions and €148.9 Million for Safer Gambling
In a standout figure, EGBA members contributed €3.8 billion ($4.45bn) in tax revenues to European countries during 2024. This showcases the significant fiscal role that regulated iGaming plays in national economies across the EU.
Equally notable is the €148.9 million allocated to research, education, and treatment (RET) programs—a 143% year-on-year increase from the €49 million in 2023. These funds are dedicated to initiatives that mitigate gambling-related harm and support addiction treatment, demonstrating tangible reinvestment in public welfare.
Safer Gambling Tools Reach 26.7 Million Users
Player protection remains a central focus. According to the report, 69% of customers (26.7 million users) accessed safer gambling tools during 2024, a 28% rise from the previous year. Deposit limits were the most frequently used tool (65%), followed by self-exclusion (12%) and time limits (11%).
The 18-35 age group, which makes up 58% of EGBA’s 38.6 million registered users, showed the highest usage of these tools. Messaging also increased significantly, with 100 million responsible gambling communications sent—up 64% year-on-year. Of the personalised messages, 42–46% had a positive behavioural impact on at-risk players.
Gender Diversity and Age Representation in the Workforce
In terms of human capital, 43% of EGBA member employees were female, mirroring 2023 statistics. Most employees (71%) were aged between 26–50, with the 18–25 age group comprising 16%. These numbers suggest a stable workforce with room for greater youth participation and gender parity.
Renewable Energy Usage Hits 78%, as Energy Consumption Falls
On the environmental front, EGBA members have made major progress toward sustainability. Energy consumption declined by 11% in 2024, while the use of renewable energy sources rose to 78%, up from 64% in 2023. This signals alignment with broader EU climate goals and increased efficiency in data center operations and office management.
Future-Facing: AML/CTF and Continued Transparency
Looking ahead, EGBA will amend its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) guidelines in 2026, signaling ongoing compliance refinement. The current report, its fifth consecutive annual publication, is part of a transparency initiative aimed at enhancing public trust and stakeholder accountability.
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of EGBA, remarked:
“This report shows not just where we are, but how far we’ve come – and where we’re heading. We publish it to support transparency and reinforce our culture of social responsibility.”
Conclusion
EGBA’s 2024 Sustainability Report reflects a sector that is not only growing in scale but maturing in responsibility. From massive fiscal contributions and improved player protections to lower carbon footprints, the data supports a narrative of reform-minded expansion. As European iGaming continues to evolve, EGBA’s members are clearly positioning themselves as leaders in ethical and sustainable growth.
