Virgin Media O2 has marked Earth Day with a significant announcement, revealing a 56% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions compared to its 2020 baseline. This achievement is a key milestone within the company’s Better Connections Plan, its sustainability strategy published in 2024. The progress puts Virgin Media O2 firmly on track to meet its Science Based Target of reducing operational emissions by 90% by 2030, well ahead of the national target to reach net zero by 2050. The company has embedded carbon reduction into its culture, linking annual bonus schemes to emissions performance to encourage further action.

In addition to cutting emissions, Virgin Media O2 has implemented a series of measures to promote resource efficiency and minimise waste. The company has achieved a 15% reduction in energy used for cooling at data centres across 20 sites, and has deployed over 350 electric vehicles as part of its goal to transition to a fully electric fleet. Further, it has removed plastic packaging from its own-brand products delivered to customers and collaborated with suppliers to reduce plastic packaging at source by 27% compared with 2022. All sites where Virgin Media O2 manages energy bills now run on 100% renewable electricity, and a targeted programme to cut Scope 3 emissions within the supply chain is well underway.

Virgin Media O2 is also leading the charge against electronic waste, encouraging people and businesses to repair, recycle, or donate unwanted electrical devices. Since 2022, the company has supported 8.5 million ‘circular actions’ toward its goal of 10 million by the end of 2025. Through initiatives such as O2 Recycle, which welcomes devices from all mobile operators, the company has processed over four million devices and paid out £350 million to consumers. The scheme now accepts a wider range of electronics, including consoles and MacBooks, and offers refurbished devices through its ‘Like New’ range. More than 21,000 smartphones have also been donated to the Community Calling initiative, providing essential connectivity to those in need.

Nicola Green, the Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, emphasized that through their Better Connections Plan, the company is at the forefront of promoting sustainable living. As they approach the final year of their pioneering sustainability strategy, Virgin Media O2 remains committed to being a responsible business that positively influences the UK. Their efforts include reducing carbon emissions, addressing electronic waste, and assisting those in need to access the internet, all aimed at creating a lasting impact on both the environment and the communities they support.

Beyond environmental measures, Virgin Media O2 has committed to digital inclusion by helping millions gain access to digital skills and connectivity. More than six million people have benefited from digital skills training or support, exceeding the company’s target a year ahead of schedule. The National Databank, offering free O2 data, texts, and calls to people experiencing data poverty, has connected 300,000 individuals since launch and is now available at over 3,000 locations nationwide. The company has also introduced social tariffs for mobile and broadband, distributed internet-enabling devices to people in temporary accommodation, and pledged to donate up to 12,000 devices in 2025. Working alongside government and charity partners, Virgin Media O2 continues to ensure technology serves both people and planet, reinforcing its pledge to make a positive impact across the UK.