Global leaders gathered during the Climate Summit recently to reaffirm their commitment to combating climate change through technology, resulting in the signing of the COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action. This initiative is supported by over 1,000 stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organisations, and international bodies, all of whom are committed to leveraging digital technologies for environmental sustainability.
The Green Digital Action, which was initially launched at COP28 in Dubai, calls for the technology sector to adopt common criteria and transparent reporting practices while committing to minimise its greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption. It aims to address the dual challenge of utilising digital innovations to mitigate the effects of climate change while simultaneously reducing the negative environmental impacts associated with technological advancement.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a United Nations agency focused on telecommunications development, has outlined various actions to promote sustainable digital transformations. These actions highlight the necessity of using digital technologies as pivotal tools to combat climate change, particularly through methods that monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and improve emergency preparedness.
The COP29 Declaration outlines eight key objectives aimed at fostering a holistic approach to sustainable digital transformation. These objectives include:
The utilisation of digital technologies to facilitate global actions against emissions, improve climate monitoring and forecasting, and strengthen emergency responses.
The development of digital infrastructure that can withstand climate change impacts.
The reduction of digital technologies’ adverse effects by achieving net zero emissions through reliance on clean energy and enhanced measurement practices.
The provision of accessible digital technologies for climate action, particularly in developing countries, and enhancing digital literacy among disadvantaged groups, notably women and youth.
The harnessing of data to comprehensively understand and monitor the effects of green digital solutions.
The encouragement of sustainable innovation through mobilising climate funds, investing in research, protecting intellectual property, and fostering eco-friendly technological advancements.
The promotion of sustainable consumer practices.
The sharing of best practices to reduce emissions and enhance resilience to climate impacts.
Telefónica has affirmed its commitment to this initiative with aspirations to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 across its entire value chain. The company believes in the essential role of digitalisation in facilitating both economic and social transformations and emphasises the importance of the collaborative efforts established through the COP29 declaration. By participating actively in the ITU’s Green Digital Action initiative, Telefónica aims to drive substantial progress towards shared climate goals while promoting sustainable digital transformation across industries.
Overall, the COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action plays a significant role in aligning technology use with the urgent need for environmental sustainability, calling for an integrated approach to advance global climate action.
Source: Noah Wire Services