The challenges of global climate change and the need to reduce our carbon footprint makes it vital that the next generation 6G networks reflect the most energy efficient available technologies, reducing our dependence on non-renewable sources and using as much as possible renewable and ambient sources of energy.
Energy consumption is not the only aspect to consider for achieving these goals and conserving our planet. Beyond energy consumption and emissions, the ICT sector’s overall environmental impact also must be considered, including water consumption, raw material sourcing, and waste handling.
The objective of this report is to provides detailed insights of the current initiatives employed across the ICT to address climate change and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the report identifies areas for improvement, describing a range of potential solutions that could be incorporated within next generation networks to further reduce energy consumption and to be more sustainable. The report concluded on a call to action, highlighting how North America is well positioned through these key areas to drive 6G innovation in energy and environmental conservation technologies globally.