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The Fiber Optic Era: Shaping the Sustainable Future of Connectivity

SpeakerS:

Seana Smith, Journalist, Yahoo Finance
Shannon Carroll, AVP Global Environmental Sustainability, AT&T

With Core Programming Sponsor

“The value proposition is clear. I mean, fiber is faster, it's more durable, it's more energy efficient—that's what our customers want.” Shannon Carroll

Key takeaways:

  • Transition to fiber optic networks enhances sustainability: AT&T is transitioning from copper to fiber optic networks, which are faster, more durable, and significantly more energy-efficient. Fiber networks consume up to 70% less energy than traditional copper networks, contributing to AT&T’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 
  • Energy efficiency reduces environmental impact: The energy efficiency of fiber networks not only benefits AT&T but also has broader environmental advantages as it reduces overall energy consumption in the telecommunications sector.
  • Climate resiliency through data-driven infrastructure: AT&T utilizes climate data from Argonne National Laboratory to inform the placement of new fiber lines, ensuring resilience against extreme weather events. Incorporating climate resiliency into infrastructure planning supports the reliability of connectivity services, especially in the face of climate change. 
  • Collaboration and policy are crucial for widespread adoption: Cross-sector collaboration with state legislatures and public-private partnerships are essential for facilitating the transition to fiber networks. Smart policies at local and state levels support sustainable infrastructure development and help overcome challenges in the copper-to-fiber transition. 
  • Transparency in sustainability efforts builds trust: AT&T emphasizes transparency by publicly reporting its greenhouse gas emissions and progress towards carbon neutrality, validated by independent third parties. 
  • Supporting customers’ sustainability goals: Business customers seek carbon-neutral products and services; AT&T’s fiber networks enable the provision of such solutions, aiding customers in achieving their own sustainability targets. 
  • Anticipating future energy demands and solutions: The rise of technologies like AI and increased digital services will heighten energy demands, highlighting the need for renewable energy and advancements in energy storage solutions. 

Action items:

  • Advocate for supportive policies: Engage with policymakers to develop and implement legislation that facilitates the expansion of fiber optic networks and supports sustainable practices in the telecommunications industry. 
  • Integrate climate resiliency into infrastructure planning: Use climate data to inform the deployment of new networks, ensuring infrastructure is resilient to extreme weather events and aligned with long-term sustainability goals.
  • Enhance transparency and reporting: Publicly disclose sustainability efforts and progress, including greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption, to build trust and encourage industry-wide transparency. 
  • Foster cross-sector partnerships: Collaborate with government agencies, research institutions, and other companies to share data, tools, and best practices that promote climate resiliency and environmental sustainability. 
  • Invest in renewable energy and storage technologies: Support the development and adoption of renewable energy sources and long-duration energy storage solutions to meet future energy demands and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. 
  • Offer sustainable solutions to customers: Develop and provide carbon-neutral products and services, leveraging fiber optic technology to help customers achieve their sustainability objectives. 

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