UK telecoms giant Virgin Media O2 has announced a 56% reduction in its direct (Scope 1 and 2) carbon emissions since 2020, placing it firmly on track to meet its 2030 target of a 90% cut, in line with Science Based Targets (SBTi).
The progress was unveiled as part of the company’s annual Earth Day 2024 update, showcasing its integrated Better Connections Plan—a sustainability framework that links carbon targets with employee performance incentives.
On Track for Net Zero by 2040
The company aims for net zero emissions across all scopes by 2040, ten years ahead of the UK’s legally binding 2050 goal. The strategy is underpinned by efficiency improvements and renewable energy:
- 100% renewable electricity use across operational sites
- 15% energy savings from optimized data center cooling
- Over 350 electric vehicles now part of its fleet
- Plastic-free packaging for all own-brand products
Virgin Media O2 is also tackling indirect (Scope 3) emissions through a supply chain carbon reduction program.
Building a Circular Economy
Virgin Media O2’s commitment to a circular economy has seen 8.5 million “circular actions” completed since 2022, with a target of 10 million by 2025. Highlights include:
- 4 million devices recycled via the long-running O2 Recycle program, which has returned £350 million to consumers
- Expansion of device recycling to include MacBooks and gaming consoles, and extension of services to businesses
- Relaunch of a “Like New” refurbished phone range, subjected to 40-point quality checks
- 21,000 donated smartphones distributed through its Community Calling initiative with charity Hubbub
Accelerating Digital Inclusion
Virgin Media O2 has now provided digital skills training and support to over 6 million people, surpassing its 2025 goal a year early. Its inclusion efforts in 2024 alone include:
- 170,000 individuals connected via the National Databank, now available at 3,000 UK locations
- Rollout of the O2 Essential Plan (a social mobile tariff) and Essential Broadband for low-income users
- 2,000 “Get Boxes” delivered to temporary housing residents with Jangala, facilitating internet access
- £400,000 lending scheme to support those experiencing homelessness or domestic abuse
- 12,000 devices pledged for donation in 2025 through returns and recycling
The company also partners with government initiatives and health charities to deliver tech-based diabetes monitoring tools to children in low-income households.
“Whether it’s cutting carbon, tackling e-waste, or helping those in need to get online, we’ll continue to use our purpose, people and products to have a lasting impact,” said Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, via company statement.
A Corporate Sustainability Blueprint
Virgin Media O2’s model illustrates a multifaceted sustainability strategy that connects climate action, circularity, and digital inclusion—a template increasingly watched by policymakers and investors alike.
Sources: Virgin Media O2 Earth Day 2024 Report, UK Government Net Zero Strategy, Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
Virgin Media and 02 brand symbol from www.virginmedia.com/corporate
