The telecommunications sector plays a crucial role in our daily lives, connecting people across the globe and driving economic growth. However, with the increasing concern over climate change and global warming, it has become imperative for operators within the industry to take responsibility for their environmental impact. According to a 2024 report by the World Bank Group, the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector contributes at least 1.7 percent to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions globally. This has prompted organizations within the industry to adopt Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles to promote environmental sustainability.
One such organization leading the charge towards environmental sustainability is Vodafone, a British multinational telecommunications company. Vodafone has set ambitious climate transition goals, aiming to achieve an absolute reduction of at least 90% of GHG emissions in its operations worldwide by 2040. The company has already made significant progress, reducing the energy required for each unit of data traffic across its network by 65% compared to 2020. Additionally, Vodafone has committed to sourcing 100% of its grid electricity from renewable energy sources across Europe since 2021.
In the United States, AT&T has launched the Climate Change Initiative (CCI) to promote smart climate solutions that leverage AT&T connectivity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The company is also one of the largest corporate buyers of renewable energy in the country, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Closer to home, MTN Nigeria has recognized its responsibility to protect the planet and reduce its environmental impact. In 2021, MTN launched its Project Zero Initiative, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and its overall carbon footprint. The company has implemented various energy efficiency measures, including the use of renewable energy sources in its operations and educating its value chain actors on energy management and efficiency. These efforts have paid off, with MTN achieving a 10.3% reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2023 compared to 2021.
Scope 1 emissions, which are directly controlled by MTN, decreased from 65,899 tCO2e in 2021 to 58,356 tCO2e in 2023. Similarly, Scope 2 emissions from energy production sources decreased from 44,196 tCO2e to 40,360 over the same period. MTN has also taken steps to manage e-waste through initiatives like the 2 to 1 SIM Registration Device Revival, which aims to divert e-waste from landfills.
Despite these impressive strides, MTN remains committed to its sustainability goals, with the ultimate aim of achieving absolute carbon neutrality. The company’s Chief Technical Officer, Mohammed Rufai, emphasized the importance of initiatives like Project Zero in driving transformative change across all aspects of operations.
As the telecommunications sector continues to expand, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize environmental sustainability. MTN has announced plans to launch a data center that will operate using eco-friendly energy sources with low-emission properties, further demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable future. By embracing eco-friendly practices, organizations within the industry can reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a greener, more sustainable world.