Greenwatch: How does telecom fit into global climate efforts?

Telecom’s role in global climate work is becoming more defined, but still uneven. In the run-up to COP30, operators and vendors are pushing energy-efficiency projects, from more efficient radio access networks to better cooling in data centers and exchanges. These efforts aim to shrink the sector’s own power use and related emissions, which are under increased scrutiny as networks grow and 5G traffic climbs.

Industry groups are also trying to position telecom as part of the solution, not just a source of emissions. Connectivity enables remote work, smart grids and more precise management of energy use in transport and buildings, which can reduce carbon elsewhere in the economy. November’s sustainability updates show both sides of that ledger: the need to curb telecom’s direct footprint, and the claim that digital infrastructure can help other sectors meet their climate targets.