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From broadband adoption to climate action: Key considerations in the development of climate policies across OECD countries

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  • Palmer, SarahKate
  • Rowsell, Joe
  • Schmidt, Stephen

Abstract

This paper addresses a critical gap in telecom regulators' awareness of the climate impact of their policy decisions and highlights the substantial potential of broadband technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). Empirical evidence shows that broadband can achieve a GHGe reduction of approximately 15–20%, a notable efficiency given its relatively low direct emissions of around 0.4–1.0% of global emissions. This analysis substantiates the premise that effective telecom policy serves as robust climate policy. The paper argues for a global alignment of telecom and climate policies, advocating for an integrated approach that acknowledges the deep interdependencies between these sectors. Key policy recommendations include targeted subsidies for broadband in rural areas, strategic spectrum allocation, and comprehensive incentives for green technology adoption across consumers, industries, and governments. The goal is to prompt a reevaluation of policy frameworks, urging advanced economies to harness the full potential of digital infrastructure to combat climate change.

Suggested Citation

  • Palmer, SarahKate & Rowsell, Joe & Schmidt, Stephen, 2024. "From broadband adoption to climate action: Key considerations in the development of climate policies across OECD countries," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 48(8).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:48:y:2024:i:8:s0308596124001186
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2024.102821
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Levin, Stanford L. & Schmidt, Stephen & Scott, Graham, 2016. "Broadband Adoption: Translating the Digital Divide Literature into Effective Government Policies and Actions," 27th European Regional ITS Conference, Cambridge (UK) 2016 148684, International Telecommunications Society (ITS).
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    5. Briglauer, Wolfgang & Köppl-Turyna, Monika & Schwarzbauer, Wolfgang & Bittó, Virág, 2023. "Evaluating the effects of ICT core elements on CO2 emissions: Recent evidence from OECD countries," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(8).
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