TPG Telecom sets science-based targets to achieve net-zero carbon emissions

TPG Telecom has announced a net-zero target for its entire carbon footprint – Scopes 1, 2 and 3 – as the telco continues to decarbonise its operations and supply chain.

Aligning to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), TPG Telecom has set a long-term target to reduce its absolute emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 90 per cent, and reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2050.

To support the achievement of these long-term targets, the telco has also set near-term targets for the reduction of its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 95 per cent and Scope 3 emissions by 30 per cent, by 2030.

“As an operator and provider of critical communication services, it is essential we do our part to support Australia’s commitment to net zero and look at new and better ways to reduce the carbon footprint of our networks and our supply chains,” said TPG Telecom Head of Sustainability, Ian Lilley.

“The science is clear. Australia needs to transition to a low carbon economy to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. As a major Australian telco, we have a significant role to play and our science-based targets provide us with a clear path forward.”

Scope 3 emissions account for more than 85 per cent of TPG Telecom’s emissions footprint. These are indirect emissions the company does not directly control but which it can influence.

They include emissions from suppliers and manufacturers in the building and maintenance of network infrastructure, as well as the delivery and use of its products and services.

It is critical for TPG Telecom to maintain strong engagement and collaboration with suppliers to meet its science-based targets. This allows the company to identify and monitor which activities it can influence and understand if performance towards meeting these targets is on-track.

TPG Telecom will work closely with its suppliers to reduce its carbon emissions footprint through a range of initiatives, including encouraging suppliers to set and achieve their own emissions reduction targets. The company’s commitment to power its Australian operations with 100 per cent renewable electricity by 2025 will drive achievement of its Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction targets.

“We are proud of the emissions reduction and net zero targets we have set for TPG Telecom and Public 2 Confidential Confidential are excited to work with our suppliers to achieve them,” Mr Lilley said.

“As a company, we will continuously seek more opportunities for reductions alongside oursuppliers, and we will regularly review our targets to ensure continued alignment with the ScienceBased Targets initiative.” TPG Telecom’s net-zero target was revealed in its recently released Sustainability Report. The telco’s sustainability strategy features four key pillars where TPG Telecom wants to make a meaningful difference. These include Environmental Sustainability; Customer Wellbeing; Inclusion & Belonging; and Digital Economy.

CT Bureau