Navigating Telecoms Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive Requirements: Compliance and Implications for Networks

Navigating Telecoms Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive Requirements: Compliance and Implications for Networks

As the telecommunications landscape continues to evolve rapidly, regulatory frameworks are adapting to ensure the sustainability and environmental responsibility of critical infrastructure. One such regulation gaining prominence is the Telecommunications Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). In this article, we’ll explore what CSRD requirements entail, when they are set to take effect, and what network operators must do to comply.

Understanding CSRD Requirements

The CSRD is a European Union directive aimed at enhancing the sustainability posture of telecommunications networks and services. It introduces a set of minimum environmental standards and obligations for operators of essential services (OES) and digital service providers (DSPs) in the telecommunications sector. The directive encompasses various aspects of sustainability reporting, including resource management, waste reduction, and environmental impact assessment.

Key Components of CSRD Compliance

Resource Management and Assessment: Network operators must conduct comprehensive assessments to identify and manage environmental risks to their networks and services. This involves evaluating resource consumption, waste generation, and impacts on the environment.

Environmental Measures and Controls: CSRD mandates the implementation of appropriate environmental measures and controls to minimise environmental impact. This includes measures such as energy efficiency initiatives, waste reduction strategies, and sustainable procurement practices.

Environmental Reporting and Disclosure: Operators are required to establish procedures for the transparent reporting and disclosure of environmental performance. This involves documenting environmental metrics, tracking progress towards sustainability goals, and disclosing relevant information to stakeholders.

Supply Chain Sustainability: CSRD emphasises the importance of supply chain sustainability, requiring operators to assess and manage the environmental risks associated with third-party suppliers and service providers. This includes conducting environmental assessments, promoting sustainable practices, and engaging with suppliers on sustainability initiatives.

Cooperation and Engagement: The directive promotes cooperation and engagement among network operators, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to enhance environmental sustainability across the telecommunications sector. This includes participating in sustainability initiatives, sharing best practices, and collaborating on environmental projects.

Steps to Achieve CSRD Compliance

To comply with CSRD requirements, network operators should take the following steps:

  1. Assess Current Environmental Performance: Conduct a thorough assessment of existing environmental practices, policies, and controls to identify areas for improvement.
  2. Develop and Implement Sustainability Measures: Develop and implement appropriate sustainability measures and controls based on the identified environmental risks and opportunities.
  3. Establish Environmental Reporting Procedures: Establish procedures for the transparent reporting and disclosure of environmental performance to stakeholders.
  4. Engage with Regulatory Bodies: Collaborate with regulatory bodies and industry associations to ensure compliance with CSRD requirements and promote best practices in environmental sustainability.
  5. Monitor and Review Compliance: Continuously monitor and review compliance with CSRD requirements, track progress towards sustainability goals, and adjust policies and practices as needed.

Implications for Telecoms Networks

The CSRD brings with it a host of implications for networks, from increased reporting requirements to heightened stakeholder expectations. Networks must adapt to these changes by:

Gathering More Environmental Data: The volume of environmental data needed for CSRD reporting will greatly increase, requiring networks to collect and manage a broader range of sustainability metrics.

Involving More Stakeholders: With stakeholders scrutinising environmental performance as closely as financial information, networks must involve more people in the reporting process to ensure accuracy and transparency.

Ensuring Accountability: CSRD reporting requires environmental information to be auditable, necessitating robust data collection and verification processes.

Telecoms CSRD Reporting Requirements

To comply with CSRD requirements, networks must report on key environmental processes, including:

Resource Consumption: Quantifying the resources required to build and maintain telecom infrastructure is essential for understanding the industry’s environmental footprint.

Waste Reduction: Reporting on waste generation and diversion rates allows networks to assess their impact on landfills and implement circular economy practices.

Environmental Impact Assessment: Understanding the environmental impacts of telecom operations enables networks to identify opportunities for improvement and mitigate risks.

Timeline for CSRD Compliance

The CSRD compliance timeline is phased, with different requirements taking effect over the next few years:

  1. Financial Year 2024: Compliance is mandatory for organisations already under the scope of the CSRD.
  2. Financial Year 2025: Large companies not previously subject to the CSRD must comply.
  3. Financial Year 2026: Compliance is required for SMEs listed on EU-regulated markets.
  4. Financial Year 2028: Compliance is mandated for all EU subsidiaries of non-EU parent companies.

How Carritech Can Help You with CSRD

Carritech offers networks a comprehensive solution for meeting CSRD requirements and enhancing sustainability, through our range of services:

Supply of Sustainable Equipment: By offering refurbished and sustainable equipment, Carritech reduces the demand for new manufacturing, consequently minimising the environmental footprint associated with telecom infrastructure.

Asset Management: Carritech facilitates efficient management of technology assets throughout their lifecycle, minimising waste and maximising value extraction.

Recycling and Responsible Disposal: Carritech prioritises environmentally responsible disposal practices for end-of-life equipment, promoting recycling and repurposing to minimise electronic waste.

Ongoing Support for End-of-Life Equipment: Carritech offers maintenance, repair, and technical support services for legacy equipment, enabling businesses to extend the lifespan of their technology investments.

Embracing Sustainability in the Telecoms Industry

As the telecoms industry navigates the transition to CSRD reporting, networks have an opportunity to lead the way in environmental sustainability. By embracing transparency, accountability, and sustainability principles, networks can comply with regulatory requirements and drive positive environmental change.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CSRD represents a significant milestone in enhancing the sustainability of the telecommunications sector within the European Union. It is imperative for network operators to familiarise themselves with the directive’s mandates, deadlines, and implications for adherence to ensure the sustainability and resilience of their networks and services. Through proactive measures to address environmental challenges and the adoption of sustainable practices, operators can mitigate risks and contribute to a more sustainable future for all stakeholders.

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Yuliya Danilenko

Account Manager

Yuliya Danilenko has over four years of experience as an International Account Manager, specializing in Level 3 Remote Technical Support.

She assists large-scale multinational organizations, fixed and mobile operators, and leading equipment manufacturers worldwide in supporting legacy telecom equipment, generating additional revenue, and reducing operational expenses (OPEX).

In her leisure time, she loves travelling and exploring different cultures.

Javier Amado

Account Manager

As an international Account Manager for Carritech Telecommunications, Javier assists large fixed and mobile operators in supporting their legacy telecom equipment, particularly in Italy and LATAM. He ensures that the company delivers the best value to customers across all services specialized in legacy telecom equipment.

In his free time, Javier enjoys sports and is an avid fan of soccer and motorsports, including Formula 1 and MotoGP. He also considers himself a lifelong learner, seizing every opportunity for growth.

Aligned with the values of Carritech, Javier is committed to helping more operators worldwide achieve their environmental goals and continue to leave a positive footprint.

Christian Mekdad

Account Manager

Christian brings over a decade of IT industry experience and 5 years in the telecom industry to his role as an Account Manager at Carritech, with a focus on optical transceiver solutions and GPON technology.

As a trilingual person speaking French, Spanish and English, he manages operations in French-speaking countries and communicates with international traders from around the world. Christian will step outside his comfort zone to find the most effective solutions to your challenges.

In his free time, Christian enjoys playing rugby and trekking in the mountains of Madrid.

Luis Alvarez

Account Manager

Luis Alvarez brings more than 5 years of experience in the telecom industry. With a focus on optical transceiver solutions, he adeptly meets the diverse needs of Carritech’s international clientele, particularly in Spain and Latin America.

Known for his consultative approach, Luis ensures clients receive customised, effective network solutions.

When not enhancing telecom infrastructures, Luis enjoys working out, exploring scenic routes with his dog and participating in local events.

Shane Driver

Senior Account Manager

Shane Driver brings over 12 years of telecom industry experience to his role as Senior Account Manager at Carritech.

With a focus on Network Hardware Support Services, Shane meets the diverse needs of Carritech’s international clients, particularly in the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe. Known for his customer-centric approach, Shane ensures his clients receive support solutions that align with their unique requirements.

Outside of telecommunications, Shane enjoys swimming, playing golf, and spending time with his young family.

Yura Saskevych

Director of Global Accounts

Yura Saskevych has over a decade of vast experience in sales of telecommunication hardware and network services support. He is the Director of Global Accounts at Carritech and holds a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.

Having been focused extensively on transport (Optical and MW), Access and Core Networks, Yura has successfully helped customers worldwide extend the life of existing telecommunication networks, reduce expenses and meet their environmental goals.

With a strong background in the telecom industry, Yura will engage with clients with a customised approach, provide required solutions and ensure that their telecom systems are running smoothly.

Adept at working simultaneously on multiple accounts with the highest accuracy and professional salesmanship Yura collaborates closely with engineers, technicians, the procurement department and project managers to plan, adapt, and optimize customer network solutions.

Yura is passionate about delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions that meet performance, security, and quality standards.

When he’s not enhancing telecom infrastructures, he enjoys doing sports, gardening and exploring scenic routes.

Miguel Asín Barcos

Sales Director

Miguel Asín Barcos serves as the Sales Director at Carritech, where he focuses on driving revenue growth and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Based in Madrid, Miguel draws on his more than 20 years of experience in the telecom industry to lead and support his sales team.

Outside of telecommunications, he enjoys football, watching movies, and spending time with his family.

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