Telefónica brings sustainability targets forward

Telefónica is bringing the target of zero net carbon emissions in its four main markets forward to 2030, knocking 20 years off the schedule.

This revision comes after the company achieved a 50% reduction in global CO2 emissions in 2019, hitting its target for 2025 early.

Telefónica said the move is part of the COP26 Race to Zero campaign, a GSMA-backed initiative which aims to mobilise companies, countries and investors to achieve a zero net carbon footprint.

Ángel Vilá, Chief Operating Officer, Telefónica, commented, “Telefónica wants to support the Race to Zero campaign to accelerate the opportunity to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible.”

Digitalisation

He added, “Digitalisation is essential to decarbonise the economy and is part of the solution. The digital solutions we offer our customers, as well as the greater efficiency of our networks, are helping to reduce emissions.”

Telefónica reports that in 2019, it avoided 3.2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions globally, equating to a saving of 3.3 tonnes for every tonne emitted. For 2025, it is targeting a saving of 10 tonnes of CO2 for every tonne emitted.