Article

Role of Telcom in Environmental Sustainability for Future Generations

27 Feb,2025 - Yangon | 3 mins read

Author: U Thein Hoke, CCAO of ATOM

Sustainability is becoming a central focus for telecom service providers as the industry evolves with innovation and digital advancements. With a growing emphasis on environmentally responsible operations, many providers are embedding sustainability into their core strategies and setting ambitious targets to achieve carbon neutral by 2050. These initiatives include emissions reduction, waste management, and renewable energy adoption – not only to lower carbon footprint but also to empower customers to contribute to a more sustainable future.

At ATOM, we are committed to fostering care and respect for people and future generations. In line with our sustainability goals, we are working towards compliance with ISO 14001:2015 by 2025. As a responsible business, we are investing in solar capacity, renewable energy-powered telecom infrastructure, sustainable network equipment, and secure waste management to drive a greener future.

ATOM’s Carbon Footprint and Initiatives

With over 8,300 network sites, multiple ISP links, data centres, and remote cores supporting many ATOM customers over 300 townships, ATOM is mindful of its operation, which generates a significant carbon footprint. In just 2024, diesel consumption totalled 26.12 Million Liters, with electricity use estimated at 108 GWh.

As automation advances and the demand for network centres grows, reducing carbon emissions and minimizing environmental impact is the first of our initiatives. Committed to sustainability, ATOM is integrating eco-efficient solutions and Supply Chain Sustainability (SCS) across its operations by expanding solar capacity at key sites and reducing reliance on the power grid – ensuring a greener future where future generations can thrive, innovate, and live Beyond Better.

Moreover, we are taking concrete steps to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future. One of our key initiatives is the donation of five acres of land dedicated to tree planting in the Lower Sin Thay Reserved Forest Area in Takkone, Naypyidaw. This initiative will be implemented by Royal Tree Co. Ltd. in a time of three years, ensuring the successful cultivation and maintenance of wood tree species such as pyinkado, padauk, htauk kyant, gmelina, and other hardwood timber species over the next three years until they can grow independently. With an investment of over 15 million MMK, this project not only supports reforestation but also aligns with our broader goals of promoting renewable resources, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering responsible environmental stewardship in Myanmar.

Reduction and Recycling 

ATOM is working towards compliance with ISO 14001:2015 standards by 2025 through improved energy efficiency, enhanced e-waste management, and the integration of sustainability practices across operations. To date, 110 new solar panels have been installed at 43 GBT sites, with plans to expand capacity. Additionally, 40 solar units have been upgraded at RTP sites, and 1,407 kWp solar farm is in development to cut carbon emissions by 1,000 tons. These initiatives will reduce electricity consumption by 3,300 kWh, saving 868,700 liters of fuel, and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 2.3 Kiloton.

On the other hand, ATOM prioritises sustainable waste management by ensuring responsible disposal of hazardous materials and recycling network equipment and handsets in accordance with international standards.

Net Zero Ambition 2050

Net Zero means reducing carbon emissions to a level that nature can absorb, with no harmful impact on the atmosphere. This aligns with the Paris Agreement’s goal to cut emissions by 45% and achieve net zero by 2050.

As a responsible business advancing Myanmar’s future, ATOM is committed to sustainability, operating 600 solar sites at industry-owned power facilities and planning 700 more for Tower Co sites. Additionally, 300 Apollo sites are being assessed for solar conversion to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Conclusion

AT ATOM, sustainability is central to our values and operations. Committed to environmental protection, we aim to reduce carbon emissions by 1,000 tons as part of our Net-Zero goal for 2050. We believe in continuous improvement and are dedicated to contributing positively to the community as a responsible business.