This initiative aims to eliminate 100 tonnes of plastic from Openreach's supply chain, aligning with its broader sustainability goals.

Openreach is introducing new optical network terminals (ONTs) made from 85% recycled plastic, primarily sourced from electronics, automotive components, and safety equipment, to connect customers to its full fibre network.

Nokia’s representative praised Openreach’s sustainability efforts, emphasizing the environmental benefits of the redesigned ONTs and packaging.

Openreach plans to extend these greener packaging practices to other suppliers, further improving supply chain sustainability.

This sustainability initiative is part of Openreach’s 'Let’s Reach Zero' strategy, targeting net zero emissions by 2031.

Abby Chicken, Head of Sustainability at Openreach, highlighted the importance of building a sustainable and reliable digital infrastructure to support a greener economy and reduce waste.

Openreach installed approximately two million of these new ONTs in 2024 and expects to increase installations as more customers upgrade to full fibre broadband.

The new ONT models, launching in summer 2025, will remove the plastic equivalent of eight double-decker buses from production.

The company has also redesigned its packaging to reduce cardboard use by 30%, enhancing shipping efficiency and reducing waste.

Openreach recognizes the environmental impact of its operations and is committed to reducing material usage and waste across its processes.

Nokia, collaborating with Openreach, has contributed to designing these ONTs to significantly cut plastic use and improve packaging, which has resulted in a 60% reduction in shipping CO2 emissions.

The recycled plastic used in the casings includes materials from electronics, automotive parts, and personal safety equipment, contributing to a circular economy.