Virgin Media O2 powers up new ESG strategy in net zero bid

Referred to as its Responsible Business Plan, the strategy will see Virgin Media O2 embed ESG into every aspect of the business, taking greater ownership over the full lifecycle of its operations.

It includes ambitious targets to minimise its impact on the planet and work to achieve net zero, in addition to making connectivity accessible and helping customers to navigate the digital world safely.

The news comes as Virgin Media O2 marks the achievements of its 2022-2025 ESG strategy, the Better Connections Plan, which has cut carbon, tackled digital exclusion and driven tech reuse, recycling and refurbishment. It forms part of its plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions by the end of 2040.

“Our Responsible Business Plan is more than a strategy – it’s how we do business. It’s built into every decision we make, how we treat our customers and employees and the products and services we provide to people across the country,” said Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media O2.

Virgin Media O2’s new Responsible Business Plan has four key areas of focus: climate, connection, control and circularity. Each area is designed to drive the greatest impact, the company said, from cutting carbon to using its products, services and pioneering programmes to transform lives.

The company will continue on its net zero carbon emissions by 2040 across its operations, products and supply chain. To do this, the company said it will build and operate more climate-resilient broadband and mobile networks.

Additionally, it will also build on its industry-leading work to tackle digital exclusion by supporting 500,000 low-income households with connectivity that meets their critical needs by 2030.

Virgin Media O2 wants to achieve its goal to support one million people experiencing hardship to get online via a range of programmes and partnerships, providing 8.5 million people with digital skills training and online safety advice. This includes expanding 4G mobile services as part of the Shared Rural Network to connect more people in rural areas so they are digitally included.

The operator said it will also double down on its commitment to fraud and scam prevention, helping keep customers safe from cybercrime. This will include investing in cutting-edge tools, such as its AI-assisted service, Call Defence and Brand ID, to flag suspicious calls and block fraudulent messages. It will also continue collaborating with cross-sector partners through initiatives like Stop Scams UK.

Schüler added: “Whether it’s cutting carbon and working towards net zero, helping even more low-income households stay connected, or giving technology a second life – Virgin Media O2 is committed to being a trusted business and a force for good in people’s lives.”

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