Telstra Leads Telecoms in Sustainable Supply Chains
As climate responsibility increasingly becomes a defining factor in telecommunications, Telstra is setting a high standard, not just through its ambitious climate targets but by driving transformation across its global supply chain. Recognised as Australia’s largest telecommunications provider, Telstra has positioned itself as a leader in sustainability through measurable outcomes, innovative partnerships and consistent supplier engagement.
A top global performer in supplier engagement
Telstra was recently awarded an ‘A’ rating—the highest possible—by CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project) for Supplier Engagement. The rating places Telstra among a small group of global leaders acknowledged for driving emissions reductions and climate resilience beyond their direct operations.
“This recognition reflects our leadership in climate governance, Scope 3 emissions and value chain engagement,” says Simon Antony, PM Sustainable and Responsible Procurement, Telstra.
“I’m proud to work for a company that takes climate action seriously and strives to embed sustainability into every part of our operations.”
The achievement signals a mature, systemic approach to environmental governance, particularly in Scope 3 emissions, which cover indirect impacts across the supply chain.
A strategy built on technology and responsibility
Telstra drives its sustainability strategy by the belief that digital infrastructure should be a force for positive environmental and social change. The principle reflects in its dual focus: reducing its environmental footprint and supporting inclusive, resilient communities.
Telstra drives its sustainability strategy by the belief that digital infrastructure should be a force for positive environmental and social change. The principle reflects in its dual focus: reducing its environmental footprint and supporting inclusive, resilient communities.
In the Telstra 2024 Bigger Picture Sustainability Report, Vicki Brady, CEO and Managing Director and Craig Dunn, Chair, stated:
“We are committed to supporting our customers and communities by contributing positively to society and the environment.
"This means not only getting the basics right to be a responsible and trusted business but also working to create outcomes in the best interest of all Australians.”
It aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 70% by 2030 —from a 2019 baseline— and cut Scope 3 emissions by half in the same period. As of 2024, Telstra had already delivered a 37% reduction across all three scopes. It has committed to enabling renewable energy generation equivalent to 100% of its electricity consumption by 2025, supported by US$720m invested in wind and solar projects.
Embedding sustainability into the supply chain
Telstra understands that a significant portion of its environmental impact comes from its extensive supply chain. Engaging suppliers is not a side initiative; it is central to its sustainability vision.
Since 2020, Telstra has partnered with CDP as the first Australian participant in its Supply Chain Program. Doing this has enabled Telstra to provide environmental reporting tools, training and support to its top 100 suppliers.
By 2024, around 80% of Telstra’s annual supplier spend—covering 295 suppliers—was reported through CDP. The visibility has allowed it to assess emissions, identify climate risks and co-create decarbonisation roadmaps with partners.
- Mandatory carbon reporting aligned to climate targets
- Standardised emissions reduction clauses in contracts
- Engagement across up to tier 4 suppliers in 92 countries
- Education and capacity-building support for suppliers
By the end of 2023, 56 major suppliers had signed new sustainability-focused contractual terms, reflecting a broad commitment to shared climate action.
Collaboration over compliance
What sets Telstra apart is its collaborative rather than prescriptive approach. Rather than dictating terms, it invites suppliers to participate in shaping contractual requirements and supports their progress through training and shared tools.
The inclusive model ensures that suppliers of all sizes and capacities are part of the journey. By maximising participation, Telstra amplifies the impact of decarbonisation efforts across the value chain.
Beyond climate: A broader vision for sustainability
Telstra’s sustainability achievements extend well beyond emissions reductions. In 2024, it reported a 95% recycling rate for network waste and successfully reused or recycled over 710,000 devices. It has also transitioned away from traditional carbon offsetting in favour of direct emissions reductions, reinforcing transparency and long-term impact.
Its social impact work further strengthens its position as a responsible business. Programmes include significant investments in digital inclusion, support for First Nations businesses and protections for vulnerable customer groups.
Setting the standard for telecommunications
In an industry facing growing scrutiny on environmental and social performance, Telstra provides a model of what long-term, integrated sustainability leadership can look like. Its commitment to supplier engagement, combined with clear targets and inclusive partnerships, sets a benchmark for telecommunications providers globally.
