The State of Mobile Emissions: Progress and Challenges
The latest findings from the GSMA's fifth annual
Mobile Net Zero report reveal that operational emissions in the mobile sector have decreased by 8% from 2019 to 2023. This decline comes at a time when mobile connections have risen by 9%, and data traffic has quadrupled. These trends highlight the telecommunications industry’s successful decoupling of emissions growth from the increase in data and connectivity.
In contrast, global emissions have surged by 4% during the same period, stressing the importance of the mobile sector's advancements against the backdrop of overall environmental challenges. However, the report underscores a pressing need for more accelerated efforts if the industry aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Emission Reduction Goals
To continue on the path towards net-zero emissions, a significant reduction of 7.5% annually until 2030 is necessary. This rate is more than double the current annual average reduction recorded thus far. Preliminary data for 2024 does point towards a promising start, with an anticipated further drop of 4.5% in emissions, but this is still below the target required rate.
In 2023, it was reported that 37% of electricity consumed by mobile operators who disclosed their data to the CDP was generated from renewable sources, effectively averting 16 million tons of emissions. This showcases the potential for increased use of renewable energy as a vital component of the solution.
Additionally, notable progress was observed worldwide:
- - Europe achieved a notable reduction of 56% in operational emissions from 2019 to 2023.
- - North America followed closely with a 44% decline.
- - Latin America reported a 36% reduction in operational emissions.
Notably, a recent analysis of emissions data from China indicates that operational emissions fell by 4% in 2024, marking this as the first recorded decrease in this significant market. China’s advancements in renewable energy adoption play a crucial role in the campaign against climate change, particularly given its vast market size of over a billion 5G connections.
A Call for Enhanced Global Collaboration
The uptick in decarbonization processes stems from initiatives by mobile operators to enhance network energy efficiency and transition to cleaner energy sources such as solar power and battery storage. There has also been a noteworthy reduction in dependency on diesel generators.
Steven Moore, the GSMA's climate action lead, stated, “Our findings indicate that the mobile sector is not just engaging in greenwashing or greenwishing; it is making tangible strides for the environment. However, the pace of these advancements must now double.” Moore emphasizes that sustained progress will require a broader support network, most notably improved access to renewable energy and more secure political conditions, alongside fostering closer collaboration within the telecom ecosystem.
As the mobile industry gears up for discussions at the
MWC25 Shanghai, it is clear that while the sector has made commendable progress, a significant level of commitment and acceleration is needed to meet the ambitious targets set for a sustainable future. The call for revised transition plans indicates that managing emissions and minimizing environmental impacts will become increasingly pivotal in the coming climate challenges ahead.
For additional insights and to follow developments in this critical area, stakeholders can stay informed via
GSMA's official publication.