The tech, media, and telecoms industries are facing increasing pressure from both governments and consumers to reduce their environmental impact.

In the UK, several key regulations are shaping how companies in these sectors must operate, and businesses will need to adapt to stay ahead of the curve.

The Climate Change Act 2008(1) sets the overarching target for the UK to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, and this includes businesses in the tech, media, and telecoms sectors. Under this legislation, companies will be required to reduce their carbon footprints and improve energy efficiency in order to meet emissions reduction targets.

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) also requires companies of a certain size to regularly assess their energy use and identify opportunities for savings(2).

For tech companies, the WEEE Directive mandates that businesses take responsibility for the recycling of electronic waste. This is becoming increasingly important as the rate of e-waste grows, with companies required to ensure that their products can be recycled at the end of their life cycle(3).

Telecom companies must also comply with regulations like the Net Zero Strategy(4) and UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS)(5), which affect the energy efficiency of network infrastructure. These regulations push telecom companies to adopt more sustainable practices in the construction and operation of mobile towers, cables, and fibre-optic networks.

The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which require businesses to bear the costs of product recycling and disposal, are becoming more important as companies look for ways to reduce waste(6).

By adopting these practices, companies can not only comply with the law but also contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.

As sustainability regulations continue to evolve, businesses in tech, media, and telecoms must stay informed and adjust their operations to ensure compliance and meet the growing expectations of consumers and regulators.

Bibliography

1 Climate Change Act 2008 (Accessed May 2025) https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/27/contents

2 Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (Accessed May 2025) https://www.gov.uk/guidance/energy-savings-opportunity-scheme-esos

3 Regulations: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) (Accessed May 2025) https://www.gov.uk/guidance/regulations-waste-electrical-and-electronic-equipment

4 Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener (Accessed May 2024) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/net-zero-strategy

5 Participating in the UK ETS (Accessed May 2025) https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/participating-in-the-uk-ets/participating-in-the-uk-ets

6 Extended producer responsibility for packaging: who is affected and what to do (Accessed May 2025) https://www.gov.uk/guidance/extended-producer-responsibility-for-packaging-who-is-affected-and-what-to-do