Sustainability and energy reduction have become crucial for telecommunications service providers. Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has reported a significant 56% reduction in emissions for the year 2024, measured against a 2020 baseline, as part of its commitment outlined in the Better connections plan.
Environmental Initiatives and Goals
As part of its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy, VMO2 aims for a near-term Science Based Target of a 90% reduction in operational emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) by 2030. The company’s overarching goal is to reach net-zero carbon emissions throughout its products, operations, and supply chain by 2040—ten years ahead of the UK’s national target.
Achievements in Sustainability
In 2024, VMO2 realized a 15% reduction in energy used for cooling data centers across 20 sites and introduced over 350 electric vehicles as part of its initiative to transition to a fully electric fleet. The company has also eradicated plastic packaging from its own-brand products and collaborated with suppliers to decrease plastic packaging at its source by 27% since 2022. Additionally, VMO2 continues to utilize 100% renewable energy in locations where it controls the energy bill and has initiated efforts to mitigate Scope 3 carbon emissions from its supply chain.
O2 Recycle Scheme
The O2 Recycle scheme has facilitated 8.5 million “circular actions” since 2022, contributing to a target of 10 million by 2025. This program allows users, regardless of their mobile provider, to recycle devices, including smartphones, tablets, and consoles. Since its inception in 2009, the scheme has processed over four million devices and distributed £350 million to consumers.
Community Impact and Social Responsibility
VMO2 has broadened the O2 Recycle program to accept a variety of devices including consoles and MacBooks. In addition, the initiative allows businesses to donate unused devices through O2 Recycle for Business. The company has also partnered with the environmental charity Hubbub to provide over 21,000 smartphones through its Community Calling initiative, helping those in need.
Accessibility Efforts
In 2024, VMO2 connected more than 170,000 individuals experiencing data poverty through the National Databank, available in over 300 O2 stores nationwide and 3,000 locations across the country.
Incentives for Carbon Reduction
To further drive its carbon reduction efforts, VMO2 has incorporated carbon reduction performance metrics into its annual bonus scheme, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainability.