Access to renewable electricity will be essential if the global mobile industry is to achieve its climate ambitions, according to a new GSMA report. While operators have made significant progress in improving network energy efficiency, the report concludes that wider access to clean energy remains one of the biggest factors influencing the sector’s ability to reach net-zero emissions. The findings come as mobile data traffic continues to grow rapidly, increasing overall electricity demand.

The report highlights that many telecom operators are already reducing emissions through more efficient network technologies, modernising infrastructure and retiring older equipment. However, further progress will depend on expanding renewable energy availability and accelerating investment in cleaner electricity across global markets.

Alongside decarbonising energy use, the telecom industry is increasingly embracing circular economy practices such as refurbishing network equipment, extending the lifespan of devices and improving recycling rates. These initiatives help reduce demand for new materials while lowering the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and infrastructure replacement.

Together, renewable energy and circular business models are expected to play a central role in the industry’s long-term sustainability strategy. By combining cleaner electricity with refurbishment, reuse and more efficient network operations, telecom operators can continue expanding digital connectivity while reducing their overall environmental footprint.