The year 2023 witnessed progress in the gaming industry's utilization of conflict-free minerals

Recent progress has been noted in reducing conflict minerals in the video game industry, following a period of decline. This conclusion comes from an extensive analysis by journalist Brendan Sinclair, published on Unlosing Writer. The report reviewed the 2024 Form SD filings of ten gaming companies concerning their 2023 supply chains.

These filings address whether the minerals used, typically in hardware production, originate from regions involving forced labor, aiding armed groups, or otherwise infringing on human rights. Microsoft disclosed a significant improvement, reporting that 87% of smelters and refiners in its supply chain were certified as conflict-free, up from 65% in 2022.

Conversely, Sony's performance declined, with only 69% of its 3TG (tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold) supply chain verified as conflict-free, down from 73% the previous year. This is noted as their lowest percentage since such disclosures became mandatory in 2014.

Nintendo reported an almost perfect score, with 256 out of its 257 suppliers passing their audits, which rounds up to complete compliance. Meta also showed improvement, raising its conflict-free certification from 89% to 94% within a year.

GameStop had previously reported dismal results, with just 38% of suppliers conflict-free in 2022. The 2023 results suggest full compliance, although there remains uncertainty as not all suppliers disclosed their raw material sources.

Both Google and Apple have maintained a fully audited supply chain over several years. Google identified only three non-compliant suppliers among 302, with Apple achieving a 100% conflict-free status.

The detailed coverage extends to companies like Amazon, Turtle Beach, and Logitech, emphasizing Amazon's reluctance to disclose complete information. Further insights are available in Unlosing Writer's full article and previous reports on industry performance data from 2022.