In the rapidly evolving telecom industry, conversations around sustainability have moved beyond power efficiency and renewable energy. One of the most impactful yet underutilized levers for reducing carbon emissions is the reuse of network equipment. From baseband units and switches to antennas and power supplies, the potential for telecom hardware to be repurposed is vast — and so are the carbon savings.
This article explores real-world case studies, quantifies carbon savings from equipment reuse, and outlines why circularity should be central to any telecom operator’s sustainability roadmap.
Why Reuse Matters in Telecom
The telecom sector is a significant contributor to global CO₂ emissions, accounting for roughly 2–3% of global carbon output — similar to the airline industry. A substantial part of these emissions come from the manufacturing and lifecycle of equipment used in mobile networks, such as radios, fiber components, and IT gear.
Reusing existing hardware:
- Avoids carbon-intensive manufacturing
- Reduces e-waste
- Cuts costs
- Extends product lifecycles
By embracing circular strategies — particularly equipment reuse and refurbishment — Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) can cut Scope 3 emissions (those linked to the supply chain) without compromising service quality or capacity.
Verified Case Studies and Data
Vodafone’s Internal Asset Marketplace
- Vodafone created an internal system to redistribute unused equipment across its operating companies globally.
- In FY22, Vodafone reused 13,000 units of equipment.
- This saved 2,500 tones of CO₂e and €10.8 million in new equipment costs.
- Source: STL Partners
Shields Environmental Group
- Shields runs a secondary market for telecom hardware and advocates for reuse over recycling.
- 67.49 kg CO₂e saved for every unit reused instead of buying new.
- With over 117 million eligible units globally, reuse could save up to 7.95 million tones of CO₂e.
- Source: Shields Environmental
TXO Group’s Circular Economy Strategy
- TXO refurbishes and resells telecom equipment globally.
- Refurbished gear has a carbon footprint up to 89% lower than newly manufactured counterparts.
- Especially active in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America.
- Source: TXO
Atea’s Reuse of IT and Telecom Gear
- Atea conducted a lifecycle analysis of reused IT and telecom assets.
- Extending the life of devices by 3–5 years results in a reduction of 50–70% in climate impact.
- Source: Atea Study PDF
Ericsson’s Product Reuse Services
- Ericsson offers take-back and refurbishment services for decommissioned network equipment.
- These services support clients in reducing Scope 3 emissions.
- Source: Ericsson Blog
Quantifying the Benefits
| Action | CO₂e Savings (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Reusing 1 BBU | 120 kg CO₂e |
| Reusing 1 RRU | 150 kg CO₂e |
| Refurbished vs. New | Up to 90% less emissions |
| Shields Estimate | 67.49 kg CO₂e per unit |
| Vodafone FY22 Reuse | 2,500 tonnes CO₂e saved |
These figures clearly show that reused equipment can meaningfully reduce carbon emissions — especially as operators upgrade to 5G or decommission legacy networks.
Reuse Isn’t Just Recycling
Reuse keeps devices in service, delaying the need for new production, while recycling breaks down old devices for raw materials, which still requires energy and creates emissions. In a circular model, reuse is the most sustainable and cost-effective strategy.
Final Thoughts
Reusing telecom equipment is no longer just a green initiative. It is a measurable, impactful strategy with tangible business and environmental benefits. As regulatory pressure and investor scrutiny grow, operators that embed reuse in their operations will lead the telecom industry’s shift toward a low-carbon future.
References
- STL Partners - The Circular Economy in Telecoms
- Shields Environmental - Reuse Energy Savings
- TXO Group - Carbon Comparison: Refurbished vs New
- Atea - Impact of IT Reuse Study PDF
- Ericsson - Product Reuse Services