The European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association (ETNO) and UNI Europa ICTS have released a research paper analyzing the impact of emerging technologies on sustainability and whether the telecommunications workforce will require new skills to keep up with these advancements. This project is part of the EU-funded initiative “Accelerating Sustainability in Telecoms.”
The report focuses on eleven new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analysis, Edge Computing, the Internet of Things, Broadband Composition, and Quantum Technologies, and their potential to contribute to social and ecological sustainability. These technologies are vital in accelerating technology adoption and reducing the carbon footprint of the industry.
The European telecom sector, which already relies on renewable energy for at least 80% of its energy consumption, has made environmental conservation a priority and aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions. However, the study highlights a critical investment gap of 174 billion euros that needs to be closed to fully utilize and adopt these technologies. Closing this gap is crucial as the demand for more complex energy-saving methods increases across various sectors.
Furthermore, both small and major players in the telecom industry are transitioning into digital service providers, creating products that promote energy efficiency for home and business consumers. This shift not only enhances the industry’s importance in promoting sustainability but also serves as an innovative model for other sectors.
While technological advancements offer numerous benefits, they also raise concerns for workers and labor markets. The applications of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, for example, have sparked debates. However, these technologies also improve safety conditions and contribute to the well-being of workers who perform repetitive tasks. Additionally, the adoption of 5G/6G technology and cloud computing has led to the emergence of telework and hybrid work approaches, which may reshape work organization and potentially impact workers’ health and safety. As job roles become more dynamic, there is an increasing need for continuous skills development and upgrading. Technologies such as cloud computing, photonics, and the Internet of Things are in high demand in the telecom industry.
The study emphasizes the importance of involving stakeholders, including employee representatives and trade unions, from the early stages of technology deployment. Engaging in social dialogue and collective bargaining allows for the consideration of workers’ interests alongside the advantages and disadvantages of new technologies. This approach addresses various issues such as labor demand, workers’ rights, working conditions, and worker happiness and safety.
Lise Fuhr, the Director General of ETNO, stressed the significance of the study, stating that a deeper understanding of emerging technologies is necessary to ensure they contribute positively to workforce participation and environmental protection.
The study aims to facilitate the integration of technology into the telecom industry and provide guidelines for addressing the socio-economic challenges associated with this integration. As the sector stands on the brink of transformation, the findings of this report can serve as a roadmap for governmental policies and corporate strategies that strive for an inclusive and environmentally friendly digital future.
