The audiovisual (AV) industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, grappling with a mounting challenge that few have addressed with the urgency it demands: electronic waste—or e-waste. Renowned technology consultant Raymond Kent and Martin Howe, CEO of Dapper Labs Ltd and chairman at Teq4, have illuminated the critical need for embracing more sustainable practices within the AV sector, particularly as immersive experiences become ubiquitous in visitor attractions worldwide. Their insights call for a profound shift in how AV technology is conceived, implemented, and ultimately retired, underscoring a vision that goes beyond mere greenwashing to meaningful, systemic change.
Kent evocatively describes e-waste as the “invisible footprint,” a rapidly growing global issue too often overlooked. “Less than 20% of electronics are recycled responsibly. This is a massive issue in terms of carbon footprint, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources needed to develop the very technologies that drive themed entertainment and guest engagement,” he explains. Howe, complementing this perspective, highlights a practical shift in project execution that aligns sustainability with technological innovation: “Over the course of three to four years, we’ve only needed to visit the site once. We’ve been able to do nearly everything remotely, whereas ten years ago, that would have involved multiple flights, site visits, and far more travel.” Together, their commentary frames a future where sustainability and high-tech creativity coexist seamlessly.
What sets the voices of Kent and Howe apart is their holistic approach to sustainable AV design—what Kent terms a “360-degree lifecycle perspective.” This mindset considers every phase, from material sourcing and manufacturing to installation, operation, and end-of-life disposal or repurposing. Their advocacy for “smart AV systems, smart controls, optimized cabling” and energy-efficient protocols like Wake-on-LAN demonstrates not only environmental responsibility but a sophisticated understanding of operational efficiency that benefits both venues and visitors alike. Notably, the integration of AI and digital twins in projects reduces material waste and unnecessary travel, reflecting a modern renaissance in AV project management that other creative technology sectors might emulate.
This thoughtful orchestration of technology and sustainability positions Kent and Howe as pivotal figures within the broader immersive media landscape. Their work resonates deeply in the fulldome community, where large-scale projection environments depend heavily on AV infrastructure. Many planetariums and dome festivals are actively looking to reduce their carbon footprints without compromising the breathtaking visual storytelling that defines the medium. Moreover, their leadership aligns with global sustainability frameworks, offering a blueprint for exhibitors, creators, and educators seeking responsible innovation. Howe’s involvement with Dapper Labs’ Chaperone project, which enhances out-of-home experiences with context-aware digital platforms, further exemplifies the transformative potential of combining immersive tech and sustainability for diverse audiences.
As immersive experiences continue to captivate and educate worldwide, the AV industry’s evolution towards sustainability, championed by experts like Kent and Howe, serves as both inspiration and call to action. Their approach not only mitigates ecological impacts but enriches the creative process, fostering innovations that extend the lifecycle of technology and redefine how we interact with digital spaces. For a global community passionate about immersive media, embracing these principles will ensure that the dazzling worlds within fulldomes and beyond remain vibrant and viable for generations to come.
Originally reported by Charlotte Coates via blooloop.com on 2025-07-10 06:08:00.
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