Telefonica Sets Goal to Cut Value Chain Emissions by More than Half by 2030

Spanish telecommunications company Telefónica announced the launch of its new “Global Sustainability Plan 2026–2030,” setting out a series of environmental, social and governance targets aimed at supporting growth, improving operational efficiency and strengthening risk management, including a new interim climate target to cut value chain emissions by more than half by 2030.

Telefónica said that the plan is structured around four impact pillars and incorporates business-related targets and KPIs intended to create long-term value while embedding sustainability across the company’s operations.

Under the environmental pillar, Telefónica aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% and its Scope 3 emissions by 56% by 2030, supporting its goal of achieving net-zero emissions across its operations and value chain by 2040. The company has also set a goal of achieving zero waste by 2030 through the reuse and refurbishment of equipment, extending the useful life of technological assets, and optimizing the use of critical materials.

In addition, the environmental strategy includes measures to adapt to climate change by strengthening infrastructure resilience and expanding long-term renewable energy supply agreements to reduce operational risks and enhance energy security.

Under the second pillar, Telefónica has committed to developing technology solutions to help customers advance their decarbonization efforts through its Eco Smart offerings. The company said that it will also focus on the protection of children, accessibility, and digital wellbeing. In addition, Telefónica plans to support the development, attraction, and retention of talent by fostering inclusive workplaces and promoting training in strategic skills needed to lead the sector’s technological transformation.

The third pillar focuses on governance and focuses on reinforcing ethical, and transparent business practices. Telefónica said it will further integrate ESG criteria into decision-making, supply chain management, and capital allocation, while advancing a governance framework for artificial intelligence alongside a comprehensive privacy and security strategy. The company said these measures will strengthen oversight and traceability across its supply chain and support its commitment to sustainable finance.

The final pillar integrates sustainability into the company’s broader corporate strategy. According to Telefónica, the plan was developed in collaboration with its corporate divisions and operating companies, with implementation to be overseen by the Sustainability and Regulation Committee. Key sustainability indicators will also be incorporated into the Executive Committee’s strategic management and monitoring processes.

Maya Ormazabal, Global Chief Sustainability Officer at Telefónica, said:

“In this plan, Telefónica is raising its climate ambition with specific targets that reinforce its commitment to renewables, energy efficiency and the circular economy. The company aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.”