Project - Sustainability and carbon footprint reduction programme

Company

Yettel Bulgaria

Category

Investor in Environment

Project description

Project Aim

Climate change, due to the increase in greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, is the most important environmental problem requiring urgent action. Yettel's programmes to optimise the use of resources and reduce negative impacts are part of our long-term commitment to protecting the environment, set out in our Sustainability Strategy, and in line with the values of the UN Global Compact, which Yettel joined as part of the PPF Telecom Group in 2023. The company supports the circular economy by reducing energy and fuel consumption, using renewable sources, improving the management of materials and waste generated by operations, and promoting sustainable living.

Project Target Group

The project plays a key role in the company's sustainable development and reduction of its carbon footprint. It is socially relevant as it supports the circular economy and green living. It is intended for external audiences - the general public, business, regulators and management - as well as the company's employees and customers. We reach our target groups through: • Events • Mass and social media • TV commercials • Internal channels (email, Intranet, Digital Office app)

Project Duration

As part of its responsibility to the environment, Yettel conducted the first detailed assessment of the carbon footprint of the company in 2022 and based on this developed its strategy to limit its environmental impact and achieve the following targets - carbon neutrality by 2050, preventing 127 tonnes of e-waste from entering landfills by 2028 and reaching 2.5 million people a year with useful information for a more sustainable lifestyle.

Project Activities

Green Network: together with CETIN, Yettel has signed a 10-year renewable power purchase agreement (PPA) with Electrohold. As a result, around 80% of Yettel's total consumption and around 86% of CETIN's will be supplied by a 123 MW photovoltaic plant. The telco is the first in the country to power such a large part of its network with green energy. Recycling programmes: each Yettel store is equipped with electronic waste collection bins accessible to customers and visitors. "Recycle and Save": discounts to encourage consumers to recycle their old devices and purchase new ones at discounted prices. E-waste campaign: installation of electronic waste collection points at various locations in Business Park Sofia, demonstrating the importance of proper electronic waste collection. "The Green Cause”: a newsletter helping consumers lead a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle with practical tips. Extended warranty: to help prolong the life of devices and prevent disposal Yettel provides an additional free third-year warranty for smartphones purchased from the telecom and its own service centre.

Project Results

Reduced carbon emissions: by using green energy to power the network together with CETIN we saved around 8600 tonnes of carbon emissions (September-December 2023). E-waste collected: we prevented a total of 27,233 kg of e-waste from going to landfill, an increase of 33% from 2022. People reached and engaged: - The Green Cause: almost 360,000 subscribers - TV advertising for The Green Cause: 2,908,343 people reached (15-59 y.o.) - TV advertising for the Green Network: 2 460 000 people reached (15-59 y.o.) Internal initiatives: - Second life for over 850 items from Hanger - Sustainable Living Challenge - 66 participants - 3 editions of ESG Quizzes with an average of about 20 participants