Belgian Telecom sector shows sustainability progress, transparency lags

Study expands operator coverage

This edition of the study reviewed a broader range of operators, including Proximus, Telenet, Orange, Digi, Eurofiber, Fiberklaar, BT, and Verizon. Other providers were excluded due to insufficient Belgian-specific data. The study primarily evaluates CO₂ emissions, energy consumption, and waste management for both fixed and mobile networks. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed, yet differences in reporting prevented a full assessment of sector-wide sustainability performance.

CO₂ emissions are declining

The study indicates that CO₂ emissions are decreasing for most operators. Scope 1 emissions from company-owned activities fell by up to 30% for one operator. Scope 2 emissions, related to electricity, were entirely offset by renewable energy purchases in some cases. Scope 3 emissions, originating from supply chains, remain the hardest to quantify consistently.

Energy consumption grows moderately

Electricity usage rose across the sector due to increased data traffic and network electrification. Operators managed the growth through energy-efficient technologies, including the expansion of fiber networks and 5G infrastructure. These investments mitigated environmental impact despite rising consumption.

Renewable energy usage increases

Several operators now rely heavily on renewable energy, with some achieving 100% usage. This transition demonstrates the sector’s commitment to decarbonization and aligns with growing societal and regulatory expectations for green energy adoption.

Waste management improves

Operators show positive trends in recycling and reuse. One operator reported a 94% reuse rate, while another achieved 98%. These results highlight growing adoption of circular economy practices, including refurbishing and recycling of network equipment.

Electrification and circular initiatives advance

Telecom operators are expanding electric vehicle fleets, with shares rising from 5% to 53% in three years. The sector also continues to focus on deploying energy-efficient technology and incorporating circular economy principles, reflecting a gradual shift toward sustainable practices.

Challenges remain in measurement

Despite progress, accurate measurement of sustainability impact remains limited by the lack of standardized qualitative metrics. The study concludes that the Belgian telecom sector is in an early transition phase toward mature sustainability management.

BIPT recommendations for improvement

BIPT advises operators to adopt international standards, improve data quality, and include the entire value chain in reporting. Policymakers are encouraged to create clear KPIs and enforce annual monitoring. BIPT will continue monitoring and collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen sustainability efforts.