United Group, Southeast Europe’s leading telecommunications and media services provider, is pleased to announce the successful approval of its 2040 net-zero target by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with a science-based approach, emphasizing the urgency of mitigating climate change. United Group’s near-term and long-term targets were also validated by SBTi, reinforcing the company’s commitment to continuous improvement in its sustainability efforts.

Science-based targets, as recognized by SBTi, provide a robust framework for companies to navigate their path towards GHG emissions reduction, ensuring alignment with the latest climate science and the goals of the Paris Agreement. These targets aim to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, preventing the worst impacts of climate change and fostering resilient, sustainable business practices.

Miriam Di Traglia, Executive Director Compliance, Risk & Sustainability, said: “This external validation underscores the robustness of United Group’s environmental goals at a time when urgent climate action is paramount. Recognizing our responsibility to lead by example, we are dedicated to reducing our emissions while simultaneously catalyzing transformative change across industries. Leveraging the power of digitalization, especially with the opportunities presented by 5G technology, we strive to enable and accelerate broader industry reductions, ensuring a collective and impactful contribution to the global effort against climate change.”

United Group’s validated science-based targets are outlined below:

Overall Net-Zero Target

United Group B.V commits to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2040.

Near-Term Targets

United Group B.V commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 90% by 2030 from a 2020 base year. United Group B.V. also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions covering purchased goods and services, capital goods, fuel- and energy-related activities and business travel 40% by 2030 from a 2022 base year.

Long-Term Targets

United Group commits to maintaining at least 90% absolute scope 1 and 2 emission reductions from 2030 to 2040, the 2020 base year. United Group commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions covering purchased goods and services, capital goods and fuel- and energy-related activities 90% by 2040 from a 2022 base year.

United Group has already seen promising results from implemented emission reduction initiatives, including facility equipment upgrades, energy efficient networks and services (e.g., FTTH and 5G) implementation, fleet electrification, small-scale solar panels installation and green energy procurement. Additionally, United Group has invested in four large-scale solar and wind renewable energy production projects in Bulgaria which will harness both solar and wind power. The company is committed to maintaining meaningful engagement with suppliers and prioritizing the integration of new energy-efficient features in its products. This strategic approach not only supports emissions reduction throughout the value chain but also underscores the company’s dedication to ongoing innovation and collaboration, driving towards a sustainable and resilient future.