DraftKings has published its 2021 environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, the company’s second ever.

Last year, DraftKings’ ESG efforts were based on four pillars: responsible gaming, skills development, community outreach and “environmental stewardship.” With these categories in mind, the sports betting brand undertook several notable initiatives.

This included funding for research regarding US sports betting conducted by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, as well as funding for the Kindbridge Research Institute’s research programme, the 50x4 Vets Project. This project studies military veterans affected by problem gambling.

In fact, DraftKings extended considerable support to veterans in 2021. The company offered free, high-tech skills training to more than 200 ex-servicemen and military spouses through its “Tech for Heroes” programme.

DraftKings further donated almost $4m to local, national and international charities. Regarding its environmental commitments, the company funded the planting of one million trees in collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation.

When compiling its ESG report for 2021, DraftKings said it consulted shareholders, employees and special advisors to the board and CEO, and considered assessments from ESG rating agencies and guidance from ESG frameworks.

The company’s ESG activity in 2021 also came against the backdrop of sports betting’s rapid expansion in the US, alongside the continued impact of Covid-19.

“2021 was a tremendous year for DraftKings as a business and the accomplishments we achieved were underpinned by our ongoing commitment to environmental, social and governance initiatives,” said Jason Robins, DraftKings’ Co-Founder, CEO and Chairman of the Board.

“Our long-term success is sustained by our attentiveness to all our stakeholders, including our employees, customers, shareholders and the communities we are a part of across the globe.

“We recognise that our ESG journey is a constant evolution and remain focused on making advances in these areas on an ongoing basis.”