According to figures released by the company, in the last two years it has cut carbon emissions by nearly 30,000 tonnes CO2.

Their figures are released in tandem with the news that they have been recertified with the Carbon Trust Standard. They were the first mobile network operator to be awarded the Carbon Trust Standard in 2009.

O2 UK chief executive, Ronan Dunne, said: “The Carbon Trust Standard is the de facto UK mark of commitment to carbon reduction.

“By retaining the Carbon Trust Standard we’ve proved that by using technology to measure energy usage, connect people, and encourage new ways of working – we can make a major difference to climate change.”

The company has implemented a range of strategic initiatives including a target to reduce ‘Carbon per Connection’ by 40% by 2015. It has launched a programme, ‘Think Big’ to engage its 11,000 employees in carbon reduction initiatives. 

Its new, state-of-the-art head office uses environmental management, smart technology and flexible working to cut the office’s carbon emissions by 53%.

The company has invested in electricity smart meters, micro wind turbines and power quality monitoring of data centres.

In total, over the five years O2’s performance has been measured by the Carbon Trust Standard, the company has improved carbon efficiency by 22%, relative to turnover.

The Carbon Trust Standard general manager, Harry Morrison, said: “We are delighted to recertify O2’s ongoing commitment to carbon reduction.

“O2’s ability to seek out new areas to improve energy efficiency proves that, with the right level of skills, tenacity, and support, it’s possible to improve carbon efficiency year-on-year – which has a hugely positive effect on the business.”

Alison Brown

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