Virgin Media O2 sets out roadmap to reach net zero by 2040
June 29, 2026 12.00 Europe/London By Julian Clover


Virgin Media O2 has unveiled a long-term Green Transition Plan outlining how it aims to cut emissions, build more climate-resilient networks and extend the life of consumer technology.

The plan forms part of the operator’s new ESG strategy and includes a target to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its entire value chain by the end of 2040.

By 2030, the company aims to reduce its direct Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90% and halve its Scope 3 emissions. It says it has already cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 63% compared with 2020 levels.

The operator also plans to source 100% carbon-free electricity from UK sources, improve the resilience of its broadband and mobile networks against climate risks and continue investing in more energy-efficient infrastructure.

Alongside climate targets, the strategy focuses on extending the life of devices. Virgin Media O2 aims to double sales of refurbished devices and double the number of handsets recycled through its O2 Recycle programme by 2030. It also plans to expand local device reuse initiatives to 30 UK cities, helping reduce electronic waste while supporting digital inclusion.

The plan is built around 14 strategic measures, including reducing emissions across its supply chain, improving the energy efficiency of customer equipment and supporting the wider transition to a low-carbon economy.

Virgin Media O2 says achieving its ambitions will also require wider collaboration, including further decarbonisation of the UK’s electricity grid and government support for the electrification of commercial vehicle fleets.

Chief Sustainability Officer Dana Haidan described the Green Transition Plan as “a milestone” in the company’s journey to become a lower-carbon and more resilient business, while former UN Climate Champion Nigel Topping said credible transition plans are becoming a defining feature of responsible business leadership.