Liberty Global and EY Report: Telcos' AI-Driven Sustainability Path

The telecommunications sector is poised to unlock significant sustainability gains through the strategic implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), according to a new report by Liberty Global and EY. The report, titled "AI for Sustainability in Telecommunications," outlines a clear path for telcos to leverage AI to reduce their carbon footprint, improve operational efficiency, and drive long-term growth.

The report highlights several key AI-driven use cases and technologies that telcos can adopt to achieve their sustainability goals. These include predictive maintenance, network optimization, energy-efficient AI at the edge, AI for waste reduction, and AI for responsible product lifecycle management. By implementing these use cases, telcos can reduce their energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and enhance resource efficiency, ultimately contributing to their sustainability objectives.

To ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI in their sustainability efforts, telcos should align with industry standards and regulations. The GSMA's Responsible AI (RAI) Maturity Roadmap provides a comprehensive framework for telcos to assess their current maturity in using AI responsibly and set clear goals for improvement. The roadmap is underpinned by five core dimensions: vision, values, and strategic goals; operating model and AI governance; technical controls aligned with regulatory requirements; collaboration with third-party ecosystems; and corporate change management and communication strategies.

By following the RAI Maturity Roadmap, telcos can ensure that their AI implementations are ethical, transparent, and sustainable. This approach aligns with evolving AI regulations, such as the EU's Data Act, the Digital Markets Act, and the AI Act, which promote transparent AI processes and provide customers with confidence in using sustainable service offerings and sustainability assistance programs.

The report emphasizes the importance of telcos adopting a holistic approach to AI integration, considering the broader implications of AI on their operations, customers, and the environment. By doing so, telcos can unlock the full value of AI while ensuring that they are doing so in established, agreed, and ethical ways.

In conclusion, the Liberty Global and EY report provides a clear roadmap for telcos to realize major AI-driven sustainability gains. By adopting the recommended use cases, aligning with industry standards, and following the RAI Maturity Roadmap, telcos can make significant progress toward their sustainability goals while improving operational efficiency and developing new, sustainable services for their customers. The future of the telecommunications sector lies in embracing AI responsibly and sustainably, and this report serves as an invaluable guide for telcos seeking to do just that.