My Interview with Eric Hansel of EGM Green, maker of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified casino tables
When I met Eric Hansel and his green casino table. Because once I learned about his company EGM Green and his product and realizing that the casino industry does green its lighting as much as it can. However, it is not really known for its poker tables being green. I then thought Eric could be on to a big thing here and this is a great niche product.
Eric and I met at a Russel Simmons Fundraiser. Eric, could you talk a little bit about that fundraiser?
The event was called “One Tree One Table.” It benefits the Sunflower Children, which is a worldwide organization started by Helena Houdova to help children in need….pretty amazing.
So tell me about your whole company?
EGM Green designs and builds the world’s first eco-friendly casino tables. Our latest tournament-style poker table appeared at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), showcased in Harrah’s booth. This placement highlighted their commitment to sustainability at the point of sale.
EGM Green also operates a consulting division with two core focus areas:
- Energy Efficiency and Building Systems
We audit energy use, perform lighting retrofits, and install nano-ceramic window films. Our patented lighting controller also functions as a building management system. We design and implement systems using solar, wind, geothermal, and cogeneration or trigeneration technologies.
- Large-Scale Sustainability and Land Management
We lead LEED-certified project management and commissioning. Our team calculates custom carbon offsets and handles competitive procurement. Then we implement sustainable land-use programs that align with those offsets, delivering measurable environmental gains for our clients.
How is your table green?
EGM Green measures sustainability by weight. If a table weighs 200 pounds and 10 pounds come from non-sustainable parts—like vinyl armrests or felt layouts—we rate it 95% sustainable.
We base everything on hard data. All wood comes FSC-certified. Our factory holds a valid FSC Chain of Custody (COC) number. For premium models, we upgrade the armrests using deer leather from a responsibly managed farm.
We also build the legs from recycled aluminum. This choice supports sustainability and boosts strength. As a result, our tables carry up to 2,000 pounds—ten times more than standard builds.
Do you have emissions metrics?
No…..but we are working with the Cleaner and Greener program to come up with a full set of metrics so that we can work to off set them. Up until now, we have just used a rough calculation and offset through Terra-Pass.
So you use FSC wood and organic materials for your green casino table?
Yes….all of our wood is FSC certified and our factory is FSC COC certified. We try to only use sustainable materials…..but for some things we have no choice.
How are you doing with the company?
2008 started slow. But after publicity from the World Series of Poker and steady outreach in the casino industry, momentum picked up fast. Now, 2009 looks primed to be a breakout year for EGM Green.
That hard work just paid off. EGM Green won the first-ever International Gaming Award for Most Eco-Friendly Company in the global casino industry. This recognition places us firmly among the top-tier green consultants—and arguably the leader in sustainable gaming.
We only partner with the best. That commitment to quality and credibility continues to deliver real results.
Does the green casino table cost more than an ordinary one?
No….these tables are made to your specifications, but if you compare apples to apples, our tables are no more expensive.
Is it really green?
These tables are really green….and because we measure the sustainability percentages, it is an objective number….not just an estimate.
We also have detailed records for all of the parts and pieces that go into our tables to comply with the FSC and be as green of a company as we are with the US Green Building Council.
What colors does your green casino table come in?
You don’t need to sacrifice anything to own a green table.
These are the same (or better) quality than other tables. You also have the option to customize the table to your specs…we use a natural linoleum covering….so any color match is possible.
You must love watching poker, who is your favorite poker player?
Annie Duke……no no maybe Clonie Gowan…..but I do have to say that I am friends Jeff Madsen, Brandon Cantu, Joe Seebok….and some others..,…..so these guys I like as well….but def. not as much as the girls.
Is it allowed in Las Vegas?
Of course…..isn’t anything allowed in Vegas.
Thanks Eric and we wish your company and mission success.
Sources:
- U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) – LEED Certification for Hospitality
This page outlines how hotels, casinos, and convention centers can pursue LEED certification through efficient energy use, lighting systems, water conservation, and sustainable site planning. It directly supports EGM Green’s consulting work in LEED project management and commissioning.
- Green Lodging News – Harrah’s and Caesars Entertainment Sustainability Programs
This article covers Caesars’ environmental initiatives, including green purchasing, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly gaming tables. It helps validate EGM Green’s placement at the WSOP as part of Harrah’s broader sustainability strategy.
🔗 https://www.greenlodgingnews.com/caesars-recognized-for-sustainability-efforts/
