In a significant leap towards environmental responsibility, Nokia has announced its commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, a decade earlier than its previous target. This ambitious move places Nokia ahead of the Paris Agreement’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions globally by 2050.
The company is intensifying its efforts to mitigate climate change by not only reducing emissions but also enhancing carbon removal through strategies such as reforestation and carbon capture technology.
The new commitment involves a doubling down on Nokia’s existing near-term target for 2030. Originally aimed at halving its greenhouse gas emissions across Scope 1, 2, and 3 by 2030 from a 2019 baseline, Nokia is now accelerating the decarbonisation of its own operations.
Net-zero emissions signify a balance between the release and removal of greenhouse gases, achieved by significantly cutting emissions and employing methods like reforestation and carbon capture technology to enhance carbon removal.
Climate scientists stress the urgency of achieving net-zero globally by mid-century, or ideally sooner, to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This threshold is crucial in mitigating the severe consequences of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and biodiversity loss.
Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO of Nokia, emphasized the business priority of net zero for the company. Lundmark stated, “Our new emission reduction targets show that net zero is a business priority for Nokia.” He highlighted Nokia’s ongoing efforts to assist telecoms customers in decarbonizing and collaborating with enterprise partners to reduce emissions and enhance productivity.
Nokia’s commitment to net-zero by 2040 builds on its previous climate targets, showcasing a proactive approach to addressing climate change. The company is set to accelerate its journey by launching more energy-efficient solutions in various network technologies, software, silicon, and systems.
Nokia’s commitment aligns with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), demonstrating its dedication to climate science and environmental sustainability.
As part of its near-term targets, Nokia aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% across its value chain. The company is also committed to achieving complete decarbonisation of its car fleet and facilities. Additionally, Nokia plans to utilise 100% renewable electricity in its facilities by 2025 and is actively involving its supply chain in transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Nokia’s forward-looking net-zero pathway includes a focus on product design and innovation, exemplified by the introduction of the Quillion chipset. This innovative chipset significantly reduces power consumption for broadband access products, contributing to a 50% reduction in power needed for fiber installations compared to previous generations.
Through these measures, Nokia aims to play a pivotal role in creating technology that promotes global collaboration for a sustainable future.
Nokia’s Pioneering Efforts for a Sustainable Future
Nokia’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 not only positions the company as a frontrunner in environmental responsibility but also underscores the critical role of the private sector in addressing the global climate crisis. The accelerated timeline showcases Nokia’s proactive stance and determination to exceed industry standards, setting a precedent for other corporations to follow suit.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validation of Nokia’s 2030 Science Based Target in 2017 marked a milestone for the telecoms vendor, reinforcing its dedication to aligning climate targets with scientific recommendations. By submitting its net-zero letter of commitment to SBTi, Nokia is reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability in meeting its long-term climate goals.
Nokia’s comprehensive approach to emissions reduction extends beyond its operational boundaries. The commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% across its value chain reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of the entire ecosystem. By involving its supply chain partners in the transition to renewable energy sources, Nokia aims to create a domino effect that resonates across the industry.
The company’s utilisation of the Quillion chipset, designed to significantly reduce power consumption in broadband access products, exemplifies a fusion of innovation and environmental stewardship. As the telecommunications industry plays a pivotal role in enabling global connectivity, Nokia’s emphasis on energy-efficient solutions demonstrates a commitment to sustainability without compromising technological advancements.
Nokia’s collaboration with various stakeholders, including telecoms customers and enterprise partners, underscores the importance of collective action in achieving meaningful progress. The Digital Work Conference, hosted in partnership with The Garage and Earna, is a prime example of how corporations can contribute to knowledge sharing and skill development, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
In conclusion, Nokia’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2040 is not merely a corporate target; it represents a paradigm shift in the way businesses perceive their role in combating climate change. As the world grapples with the urgency of environmental issues, Nokia’s strides towards sustainability offer a beacon of hope, inspiring other companies to prioritize the planet’s well-being alongside their business objectives.
