Proof that big businesses can be a force for good

Virgin Media O2 is a brilliant example of how big businesses can be a force for good. After meeting some of their team last month to discuss their purpose work and the many ways they promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, I’m more inspired by the team than ever.

The business has just wrapped up its five-year Better Connections impact strategy, and the results are worth shouting about. From tackling digital exclusion to cutting carbon and waste, here’s a handle of highlights (among many others) that really stood out to me:

• The business reduced its Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions 63% against its 2020 baseline.

• Tripled its goal to prevent 20 million tonnes of carbon emissions entering Earth’s atmosphere with 61.8 million tonnes of carbon avoided in total.

• Encouraged more than 12 million consumers to carry out ‘circular actions’, such as recycling or buying refurbished devices – well ahead of its 10 million goal.

• Helped more than one million people experiencing hardship get online as part of its efforts to tackle digital

Incredible progress, and the new Responsible Business Plan is even more ambitious and strategic. It isn’t a side initiative or a standalone programme. It’s a commitment to building responsibility into every part of the business: from how they power networks and support customers, to how they close the digital divide and extend the life of technology.

The strategy focuses on four key areas where the business can make the greatest impact: Climate, Connection, Control and Circularity.

On climate, Virgin Media O2 remain committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions across operations, products and supply chain by 2040. That includes sourcing 100% carbon-free electricity from UK sources and building more energy-efficient, resilient networks for the future.

The business remains laser-focused on helping people feel safer and more confident online. By 2030, they aim to support six million people with digital confidence and wellbeing tools, while continuing to strengthen protections against scams and fraud through innovations like Call Defence and Brand ID. Brilliant.

Tom Jenkins / Virgin

And when it comes to technology, they want to double the number of people buying refurbished devices and recycling old tech through O2 Recycle by 2030. This greatly helps reduce e-waste and supporting a more circular economy.

Progress like this doesn’t happen overnight. But by putting responsibility at the heart of business, we can continue creating lasting impact for people, communities and the planet.