Why telco’s in Africa are rushing to go green
Firms are ambitiously working round the clock towards meeting the global commitments around fast-tracking a just energy transition to alleviate against the climate crisis. CNBC Africa’s Aby Agina spoke to Michael Koech, Head of Sustainability, Airtel Kenya for more.
Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:39:53 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- Airtel Kenya is implementing a sustainability strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2030, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions from data centers and deploying renewable energy solutions.
- The company has set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions by 62% by 2032 and is working towards optimizing energy consumption through power efficiency measures.
- Telcos in Africa are collaborating with tower companies to install hybrid power solutions using renewable energy sources, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable business practices.
Telcos in Africa are taking significant strides towards sustainability as they recognize the urgent need to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Michael Koech, Head of Sustainability at Airtel Kenya, highlighted the proactive initiatives being taken by telcos in Africa to ensure a just energy transition and minimize the impact of climate change. Koech emphasized that Africa is disproportionately affected by climate change, making it imperative for companies to take action to mitigate its effects. Airtel Kenya, for example, has embarked on a sustainability strategy that includes environmental initiatives aimed at achieving net zero emissions. The company has set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions by 62% by 2032 on its pathway to becoming a net zero organization by 2030. One key focus area for Airtel Kenya is the optimization of energy consumption in its data centers, which are major consumers of power. By improving power utilization efficiency, implementing free cooling techniques, and modernizing equipment, the company aims to minimize emissions from its operations. Additionally, Airtel Kenya is exploring renewable energy solutions such as solar panels and batteries to reduce its environmental footprint. The company is also collaborating with tower companies to deploy hybrid power solutions that leverage renewable energy sources like solar power and batteries. These initiatives not only align with Airtel Kenya's sustainability goals but also contribute to driving economic growth and reducing environmental impact. Koech emphasized the importance of running business operations sustainably, stating that responsible practices are essential for success in the long run. He underscored the interconnected nature of businesses with society and the environment, highlighting the need for accountability to stakeholders and the ecosystem. Telcos in Africa are also facing challenges related to e-waste management, as the rapid pace of technological advancement leads to a surge in electronic waste. Koech noted that e-waste poses environmental risks due to hazardous components and emphasized the importance of proper disposal and recycling processes. While some countries lack comprehensive legislation on e-waste management, companies like Airtel Kenya are actively addressing this issue through sustainable practices and partnerships. As telcos in Africa continue to prioritize sustainability and combat climate change, they are setting a positive example for the industry and reinforcing their commitment to environmental stewardship.