EVOLVE
The network sustainably
EVOLVE
the network sustainably
EVOLVE
the network sustainably
Be prepared for what's next with the Adaptive Network
Reduce waste and pollution at end of life and equipment replacement
Even the most long-lived network assets will eventually reach end of life, and when that happens it’s important to keep them out of landfill. Telecommunications equipment is one of the six major categories of e-waste, and recycling levels are currently only around 22%, with the remainder typically discarded, burned, or illegally traded, according to the ITU and UNITAR Global E-waste Monitor 2024.
Although most of this e-waste comes from mobile devices and CPE not always under the control of network operators, by prioritising sustainability at the decommissioning and upgrade stage of the network lifecycle, you set a positive example in the industry and help promote a more sustainable world.
82 billion
kg of e-waste will be generated globally in 2030
(Source: ITU and UNITAR, “Global E-waste Monitor,” 2024)
Here are two opportunities to evolve your network and prioritize sustainability.
1
Prioritise sustainable packaging of new equipment
When purchasing new equipment to modernise your network, on top of the already-discussed need for energy and space efficiency and the flexibility for equipment to adapt with demand and live long in the network, it is important to look for products that are packaged in a way that reduces waste and uses fewer natural resources. Truly environmentally conscious vendors will carry their sustainability commitments through into their packaging and materials—ensuring that everything can be reused or recycled and as little as possible ends up in landfill.
2
Make use of refurbishment and end-of-life services
Even equipment that has served its time may still be useful after decommissioning. Look for refurbishment services that can extend the usable life of networking products—either by repurposing the equipment in its entirety, or repurposing components and subassemblies. For equipment that is truly at end of life, look for takeback and recovery services that can dispose of it in line with environmental legislation.
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