Mobile operators must double emissions cuts to hit 2050 net zero target- GSMA

Mobile operators across the UK and Europe must double their current pace of decarbonisation if the industry is to meet its target of net zero emissions by 2050 warns the GSMA

The GSMA’s fifth annual Mobile Net Zero report notes that operational emissions from the global mobile industry fell by eight per cent between 2019 and 2023—despite a nine per cent rise in mobile connections and a fourfold increase in data traffic.

The sector is showing early signs of successfully decoupling emissions from data growth. However, the report emphasises that emissions must now fall by 7.5 per cent annually through 2030—more than twice the average rate achieved in recent years.

Europe was highlighted as the global leader in emissions reductions, with a 56 per cent cut in operational emissions since 201. well ahead of other regions. This positions European operators at the forefront of climate progress, with notable gains attributed to energy-efficient networks, renewable energy procurement, and the retirement of legacy infrastructure.

UK and European Operators Setting the Pace

Operators across the UK and continental Europe have been instrumental in driving down emissions, supported by greater access to renewable energy markets and strong regulatory incentives.

In 2023, 37 per cent of electricity used by mobile operators disclosing to CDP came from renewable sources—up from just 13 per cent in 2019. This shift alone prevented 16 million tonnes of emissions globally. While the GSMA did not break out UK-specific figures, the UK market is considered a top performer in renewable electricity adoption and energy efficiency initiatives.

Of the 81 mobile operators worldwide that have now committed to science-based emissions targets, many of the largest European networks—including Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom, and Orange—feature prominently. These commitments cover nearly half of global mobile connections and align operators with broader EU climate frameworks such as the Green Deal.

Steven Moore, Head of Climate Action at the GSMA, commented: “Our findings show the mobile industry isn’t greenwashing or greenwishing – it’s green acting. But the pace of progress must now double. Europe is a climate action leader, but the bar is rising, especially with Scope 3 and supply chain emissions under growing scrutiny.”

Circular Economy Gains Traction

The GSMA report also spotlights the growing role of circular economy initiatives in supporting emission reductions. With around 90 per cent of mobile users surveyed indicating they value device longevity and repairability, operators and manufacturers are responding with trade-in schemes, repair services, and broader support for refurbished phones.

Nearly half of consumers are now considering a refurbished phone for their next purchase—a trend that is especially significant in markets such as the UK, France, and Germany. Refurbished handsets generate up to 90 per cent fewer emissions than new devices, offering both environmental and economic benefits, says the GSMAs report.

The second-hand mobile device market is projected to be worth $150 billion globally by 2027, with Europe expected to account for a significant portion of this growth. UK-based operators such as O2, EE, and Vodafone have already launched refurbishment and resale programmes, contributing to emissions reduction while aligning with customer demand.

Transition Plans

While reductions in direct (Scope 1) and indirect energy (Scope 2) emissions are underway, the report stresses that Scope 3 emissions—largely from device manufacturing and supply chains—remain a blind spot. These emissions make up more than two-thirds of the industry’s total carbon footprint.

Operators are being urged to develop comprehensive climate transition plans that include full value chain decarbonisation strategies. These plans are expected to become a core component of the GSMA’s Climate Action Programme in 2025 and beyond.

The GSMA’s findings are likely to shape further discussion at upcoming events including MWC Shanghai and MWC Barcelona, as the industry looks to share best practices and push for regulatory frameworks that support faster decarbonisation.

Summary

• Global mobile emissions fell 8 per cent from 2019–2023; UK and Europe led with a 56 per cent reduction.

• Emissions must now fall 7.5 per cent annually to meet 2030 targets.

• Renewables now power 37 per cent of disclosing operators’ electricity use.

• Scope 3 supply chain emissions are the next major hurdle.

• Consumer appetite for refurbished phones is fuelling a shift to circular models.

• Operators are under pressure to adopt long-term climate transition plans.