On November 30, the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) will commence in Dubai. This conference represents a pivotal moment to assess progress and contemplate the strides and challenges in meeting the climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.
In preparation for COP28, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has diligently worked throughout 2023 to develop the Green Digital Action initiative, set to be presented at the conference. This initiative aims to underscore the value of collaboration among companies, governments, and civil society, seeking to fortify and amplify the role of connectivity and new technologies in promoting sustainability. As a partner of Green Digital Action, Telefónica is steadfast in its commitment to expedite the design and implementation of practical solutions and bold actions that align with the climate agenda and facilitate the green and digital transition.
Green Digital Action’s lines of action
ITU has identified six action lines where information and communication technologies (ICTs) can contribute to achieving the environmental goals set by the United Nations. These action lines include:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the sector itself.
- Promotion of a circular ICT industry.
- Boosting the implementation of “green” standards.
- Monitoring climate and carbon emissions through the use of environmental data and technologies that are open, transparent, and available to all.
- Using connectivity and digital technologies to adapt to climate change, implementing the UN Secretary-General’s “Early Warning for All” initiative.
- Enabling the greening of the economy and society at large by harnessing the enabling effect of digital technologies and building green digital skills.
ITU acknowledges that the challenge ahead surpasses the capacity of any single nation, corporation, or institution to address individually. Therefore, collaborative efforts are imperative to achieve the dual digital and green transition. Understanding how the private sector, in collaboration with other organizations, leverages digital technology to deliver climate solutions is crucial. This fosters innovation and cooperation across sectors.
The Green Digital Action aims, on one hand, to establish reliable commitments and measurement mechanisms to promote green and digital transitions among businesses, governments, and other actors. For example, through initiatives like the Digital Partner2Connect Coalition. On the other hand, it strives to position the ICT sector at the forefront of climate change commitment, serving as a necessary enabler for other sectors to engage in essential climate action.
Telefónica has actively participated in the development of ITU’s Green Digital Action since its inception. The company trusts that COP28, starting soon, will contribute to understanding and emphasizing the importance of ICTs and digitalization in achieving the green transition. Progress is anticipated in establishing firm and lasting alliances that will propel us toward meeting common climate objectives.
