As the world shifts its focus towards achieving a decarbonised society, every sector is under scrutiny to adapt and contribute to sustainable practices. The telecoms industry is no exception. Recent research, including insights from esteemed scientific organisations, highlights the intricate relationship between climate change and the telecoms sector, shedding light on both the vulnerabilities and opportunities that lie ahead.

Climate Change impacts

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that rising global temperatures can have far-reaching effects on various industries, including the telecoms sector. Increased wear and tear on infrastructure due to extreme weather events and rising sea levels pose significant threats. Severe weather can disrupt communication networks and services, potentially leading to prolonged outages and hindering emergency response efforts.

Transition to a decarbonised society

Scientific organisations like the World Resources Institute emphasise the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions across industries. Telecom companies are taking proactive steps to contribute to this goal. AT&T, for instance, has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 and aims to utilise renewable energy sources for 100% of its operations. Similarly, Vodafone has pledged to cut its carbon emissions in half by 2025 through energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy investments.

Leveraging technology for Sustainability

Telecom giants are leveraging technology to drive sustainability and resilience. The World Economic Forum highlights the transformative potential of 5G networks in reducing energy consumption. These networks not only offer faster communication but also consume significantly less energy compared to previous generations, thus contributing to lower carbon emissions.

Furthermore, the Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionising industries by enabling data-driven decision-making. Organisations like the European Environment Agency emphasise the role of IoT in optimising resource usage. In agriculture, IoT sensors provide real-time data on soil conditions, enabling precise irrigation and reducing water waste.

By drawing insights from scientific organisations such as the IPCC, the World Resources Institute, and the World Economic Forum, the industry is proactively working towards a decarbonised future. Through innovative technologies like 5G and IoT, telecom companies are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also enhancing their ability to withstand climate-related disruptions. As these efforts unfold, the telecoms sector has the opportunity to progress with resilience on their sustainability journey, setting a precedent for other industries to follow.

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Author: Nicola Stopps, CEO & Founder