As we stand at the dawn of a new era in sustainability and technological innovation, the time for radical decisions has come. 2023 was a year marked by challenges, including global geopolitical instability and increasingly evident environmental disruption from the climate crisis.
The public dialogue on the future of our planet and our society has been taking place for many years. Many steps have been made, but they are not enough. All stakeholders should begin a transparent discussion, leading to clearer actions and stronger commitments.
The technology sector plays a crucial part in providing innovations and solutions for a greener future. At the same time, the sector faces significant sustainability challenges, notably high energy consumption and the environmental impact of ICT waste, terminal equipment, and old devices.
OTE Group has set the foundations and is committed to tackle these challenges thanks to our sustainability strategy. We are proud of OTE Group’s 10-year sustainability journey. Over these years, we have been pioneers in fully integrating sustainability in our business strategy and decisions. Our sustainable development strategy stays focused on four priorities: climate neutrality, circular economy, inclusion and equal opportunities in the workplace, and a digital society for all, each backed by firm commitments and clear goals. The outcomes of our strategy are measurable, have strong environmental and social impact, and are highly acknowledged by consumers, investors, and all shareholders.
2023 was a year, during which we continued the implementation of our sustainability strategy, which is harmonised with that of the Deutsche Telekom Group.
Advancing toward our goal of climate neutrality, we have achieved an 87% decrease in direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions from energy consumption at OTE Group facilities compared to 2017. Since 2021, the electricity we consume for our operations is 100% generated from renewable energy sources. We remain committed in contributing to Deutsche Telekom Group’s climate change targets and in OTE Group’s target for carbon neutral emissions from our operations by 2025 and across the value chain by 2040.
Embracing a holistic circular economy approach, and prioritizing resource efficiency and conservation, we collected for recycling and sustainable management approximately 1,15 million pieces of customer premises equipment and mobile devices. Additionally, we continue to produce zero ICT waste to landfill, ensuring 100% sustainable management.
Since mid-2022, 100% of own-branded, newly-launched customer premises equipment is sustainably packaged.
OTE Group has created a work culture that embeds the values of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in all labor practices. By the end of 2023, 41% of OTE Group’s employees were women and 33% of positions of responsibility were held by women. Also, 95% of the Group’s employees are covered by collective labor agreements.
We are playing a pivotal role in the digitalisation of the country, and we contribute to the creation of a digital society in which all citizens have access and the relevant skills. In 2023, more than 7.4 million people were beneficiaries of our digital inclusion initiatives, such as the Educational Robotics initiatives for students and teachers, and the Grow Your Business, digital skills program for professionals.
OTE Group is committed to making technology accessible and ensuring equal access to the opportunities created by digitalization. To this end, the company consistently implements investment plans to develop the next-generation networks essential for society and the economy. In 2023, we achieved our goal of covering 90% of the nationwide population with 5G. Additionally, 3.4 million households and businesses across Greece now have access to speeds of up to 200 Mbps through COSMOTE Fiber, and 1.3 million have gained access to Fiber To The Home infrastructure. Our commitments remain unwavering to a future where technology not only thrives in harmony with our planet but also enriches every facet of human life.
The challenges of being a sustainable organization are ongoing. European regulations and local legislation are becoming increasingly complex. Investment stakeholders are questioning ESG criteria. Poor practices and examples of sustainable strategies can create negative perceptions of companies striving to positively impact society. I can proudly and confidently say that OTE Group is fully prepared and well-equipped to meet the expectations and all forthcoming challenges.
We firmly believe in the value of having integrated sustainability in our business strategy and all our operations and standing as an example of a purposeful company. Our northern star was and still is to become the leading sustainable digital services provider.
Afterall, being a sustainable company is not a choice. Being a sustainable company is essential for the future of our society and our planet.
As we continue our journey toward a sustainable future for all, we are filled with hope and determination. We stride confidently into the future, committed towards creating a better world for all.
Michael Tsamaz, Chairman & CEO
