How Close Is Indian Telecom to a Sustainable Future? The Answers Might Surprise You!

How can the Indian telecom sector significantly reduce its carbon footprint while meeting the ever-increasing demand for connectivity? This question is more pressing than ever as telecom operations evolve rapidly, becoming critical to modern life.

According to STATISTA , the global telecom industry is projected to reach a value of over $1.5 trillion by 2024. However, this growth brings with it significant environmental challenges, particularly in India, where the telecom sector contributes approximately 1% of the country’s total carbon dioxide emissions, exceeding the global standard of 0.7%.

The Growing Challenge of Carbon Emissions

As bandwidth demand escalates, the energy consumption of telecom operations is soaring. The Indian telecommunications industry, though pivotal for economic development, faces serious scrutiny over its environmental impact. Gartner reports highlight that operational inefficiencies and a lack of stringent regulations contribute to higher emissions. The industry’s carbon mitigation efforts are often hindered by voluntary disclosure practices and a limited focus on operational activities.

In 2017, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India(TRAI) emphasized the need for more robust regulatory frameworks to accurately measure and report carbon emissions. This leniency can create a distorted perception of a company’s environmental impact, allowing operators to sidestep accountability.

Supply Chain Dynamics in Telecom

The telecom supply chain encompasses various components, including equipment installation, service delivery, and operational management. An efficient supply chain can play a crucial role in reducing emissions. For instance, integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools can facilitate real-time monitoring of network faults, minimizing the need for field staff movement. Advanced technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can trace cable faults, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

At the component level, implementing high-efficiency rectifiers and intelligent power monitoring systems can significantly decrease energy waste. Moreover, encouraging the use of biofuels and alternative energy sources can further contribute to lowering daily operational carbon emissions.

Collaboration for Sustainability

Effective collaboration across various stakeholders in the telecom supply chain is essential for achieving sustainability. This includes mobile operators, value-added service providers, and equipment manufacturers. A 2024 report from IBM highlights that firms adopting collaborative strategies are better positioned to meet their carbon reduction targets.

Traffic offloading from cellular networks to Wi-Fi, utilizing smaller outdoor Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), and implementing free cooling systems at tower sites are all viable strategies that telecom companies can adopt. Moreover, optimizing retail deliveries and consolidating routes can reduce emissions associated with distribution.

Regulatory Frameworks and Incentives

The role of government regulation cannot be overstated. Policies encouraging green procurement and environmental assessments are critical. A participative approach to carbon declarations, as observed in successful models from China, has proven effective. Incentivizing supply chains through cap-and-trade policies or carbon taxes can lead to significant reductions in emissions.

Incorporating a net-zero framework and circular economy principles into the telecom supply chain can also enhance sustainability efforts. Although developing countries face challenges in adopting these frameworks, they hold the potential to drive significant change.

The Importance of Measurement and Benchmarking

One of the pressing needs in the Indian telecom sector is the establishment of robust measurement practices to track energy usage and carbon emissions comprehensively. The current focus on operational emissions (SCOPE I and II) often overlooks emissions from supply chains (SCOPE III), which can be substantial. Implementing a comprehensive Environmental Sustainability Index could provide telecom companies with the tools necessary to benchmark their sustainability efforts.

In their recent study, researchers from Indian Institute of Management Kashipur have developed a framework that measures environmental sustainability beyond mere operational activities. This comprehensive approach takes into account all types of emissions and identifies critical factors that can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the telecom sector.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Future

As the Indian telecom sector continues to expand, it must prioritize environmental sustainability to mitigate its carbon emissions. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, implementing advanced technologies, and adhering to stricter regulatory frameworks, the industry can move toward a greener future.

The potential for significant emissions reduction exists; it is now up to telecom operators and policymakers to seize this opportunity and commit to sustainable practices that benefit both the economy and the environment.

Through collective efforts, the telecom sector can lead the way in demonstrating that economic growth and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive but can coexist harmoniously for a sustainable future.

In a rapidly changing landscape, MAPL is your trusted partner for innovative and sustainable IT infrastructure and telecommunications solutions. Our commitment goes beyond mere connectivity; we strive to empower businesses while fostering environmental responsibility.