Virgin Media O2 unveils plan to becoming net zero by 2040

Virgin Media O2 has published a plan outlining its aim to become net zero by 2040.

The Green Transition Plan has been released as the telecommunications company looks to decarbonise, support nature recovery and bolster its network infrastructure against climate risks.

The plan also has a focus on driving device reuse and recycling.

By 2030 it aims to cut its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% and Scope 3 emissions by 50%. Scope 1 and 2 emissions have already been cut by 63% against its 2020 baseline, it says.

It also plans to “achieve net zero carbon emissions across its full value chain by the end of 2040”.

Another pledge is to source all its carbon free energy from UK sources and build more “climate resilient broadband and mobile networks”.

Further commitments backing the “UK’s circular economy so technology, such as smartphones, tablets or consoles, can be given a second life and repaired, recycled or refurbished and sold as ‘like new’ products”.

“This reduces demand for critical materials, supports business resilience and increases customer choice,” said Virgin Media O2.

It aims to double the number of people buying refurbished devices from the firm and also double the number of people recycling unwanted devices via its O2 Recycle service by 2030.

The firm will also build on its partnership with Coventry City Council to champion device reuse in 30 cities by 2030.

“The plan is underpinned by 14 ‘transition levers’ that will help the company reach its goals as quickly and efficiently as possible,” it said.

“These include working with its supply chain to cut carbon and waste from network and customer equipment, sourcing carbon-free energy, improving the energy efficiency of customer devices, and continued investment in its networks which will support the UK’s net zero transition.”

Virgin Media O2’s chief sustainability officer Dana Haidan added: “Embedding responsible business into every decision Virgin Media O2 makes is key, as we reduce our environmental impact, help protect the planet, and keep our customers connected.”

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