One New Zealand Wins Award for Embedding ESG Across Telecoms
The Global Sustainability Awards 2025 recognise the organisations and leaders embedding ESG principles into core operations. Now firmly established as a global benchmark, the awards showcase measurable achievements across industries including energy, finance, manufacturing, technology and telecommunications.
For the telecommunications sector, sustainability has become both a responsibility and an opportunity.
As providers of critical infrastructure, telecom operators face growing pressure to reduce emissions, transition to renewable energy and adopt circular practices in device lifecycles.
Networks demand vast amounts of energy, yet they also enable the digital tools and smart systems that support global decarbonisation efforts.
From renewable integration and energy-efficient infrastructure to inclusive governance and community programmes, the sector plays a pivotal role in ensuring sustainable growth while keeping societies connected.
At this year’s ceremony, several organisations were recognised for embedding sustainability into business strategy, including One New Zealand.
One New Zealand - Medium Company of the Year Award
One New Zealand, the country’s largest wireless carrier, was recognised at the Global Sustainability Awards 2025 for the Medium Company of the Year Award.
Formerly operating as Vodafone New Zealand, the company was founded in 1998 and has since grown to provide nationwide mobile, broadband, fixed-line and internet services. It operates one of New Zealand’s largest 5G networks while maintaining the country’s only remaining 2G network, ensuring connectivity across diverse communities.
The award highlights One New Zealand’s enterprise-wide commitment to embedding ESG principles into every part of its operations. The company integrates renewable energy into its network infrastructure, enabling more sustainable connectivity while lowering overall emissions.
Alongside this, it has introduced circular device programmes designed to extend product life cycles, reduce electronic waste and promote reuse.
One New Zealand also applies AI-driven efficiencies across its network, reducing energy consumption while maintaining service reliability. Its focus on resilience ensures that emergency connectivity remains robust during crises, safeguarding both customers and communities.
Governance and culture form a central part of its sustainability strategy. With an inclusive workplace and transparent engagement with stakeholders, the company builds trust while advancing youth-focused initiatives and long-standing community programmes.
By aligning strong operational performance with ESG commitments, One New Zealand demonstrates how telecom providers can deliver resilient infrastructure, social impact and environmental responsibility together. This recognition confirms its position as a sector leader committed to purpose-driven sustainability.