Grameenphone, the largest telecom operator in Bangladesh, is not just leading the charge in digital connectivity but also in sustainability by embracing and reporting the good practices much earlier.
With a firm commitment to environmental responsibility, the company aims to cut its carbon emissions by 50 per cent by 2030, using 2019 as its baseline year, its Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tanveer Mohammad told TIMES of Bangladesh in an interview.
This bold move is part of Grameenphone’s broader sustainability strategy, which integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices at every level of its operations.
The climate action
Grameenphone is actively working to reduce its environmental impact, Tanveer Mohammad elaborated on the company’s sustainability initiatives, highlighting its role in promoting digital inclusion, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting national climate goals.
According to him, the company in 2024 offset 47 per cent of its grid electricity consumption through Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) from renewable sources.
“The purchase of EACs ensures that a significant portion of our energy consumption comes from renewable sources, directly contributing to our sustainability goals,” Tanveer explained.
Additionally, Grameenphone has deployed solar power at more than 1,014 network sites, resulting in a reduction of approximately 3,545 tons of CO₂ emissions annually.
“We were the first in Bangladesh to launch an eco-friendly service centre through our Green Grameenphone Centre in Ambarkhana, Sylhet. We were also the first to introduce eSIM technology, which reduces plastic waste,”
Tanveer shared the company’s innovative approach.
The carbon emissions reduction goal is mainly supported by the company’s active involvement in advocating for the Corporate Power Purchase Agreement framework, which facilitates access to cost-effective renewable energy, making the transition to a low-carbon future both efficient and reliable.
Empowering underserved communities
Grameenphone’s sustainability initiatives go beyond environmental impact. It also focuses on addressing social disparities.
The company’s efforts in digital inclusion are a key pillar of its strategy. Since 2023, Grameenphone has launched targeted programmes for marginalised communities, reaching over 3.3 million people, with a focus on youth and women, who make up 70 per cent of the participants.
“Digital inclusion is not just about providing access to technology. It is about ensuring that underserved communities, especially youth and women, have the skills to use this technology in meaningful ways,” Tanveer Mohammad said.
The programmes aim to build practical internet skills, enabling participants to improve their economic opportunities and quality of life. On top of that, Grameenphone is deeply committed to ensuring online safety.
Through structured digital safety programmes, the company has educated over 4.7 million children and trained 25,000 teachers nationwide.
“This is about building a digitally literate generation. We are not just helping them navigate the online world safely, we are enabling them to use it as a tool for economic and social empowerment,” Tanveer noted.
The cost of sustainability
Grameenphone acknowledges that adopting sustainable practices involves initial costs but emphasises that the long-term benefits are significant.
Investments in solar energy, renewable electricity, and efficient equipment may seem costly at first, but they reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve network resilience.
Tanveer explained, “Every Taka we invest in sustainable practices today will bring long-term dividends—not just for Grameenphone but for the nation.”
The social impact of Grameenphone’s sustainability efforts is also substantial. Through programmes like the Inclusive Digital Future and GP Academy, the company is empowering marginalised communities with the digital skills they need to unlock new income and learning opportunities.
“The programmes help people gain digital skills, stay safe online, and access new opportunities. It is not just about services; it is about unlocking potential,” Tanveer Mohammad added.
Grameenphone has set clear sustainability targets across different timeframes. In the short term, the company is focusing on increasing the use of renewable energy, expanding solar-powered sites, and maintaining full recycling of e-waste. There’s also a strong focus on strengthening cybersecurity, data privacy, and responsible business conduct.
In the medium term, Grameenphone aims to scale its sustainability programmes and build systems that create long-lasting impact. This includes expanding the Inclusive Digital Future programme to reach more marginalised
communities and significantly growing youth upskilling efforts through Grameenphone Academy and Futurenation.
Looking further into the future, Grameenphone is committed to making significant strides toward its 2030 sustainability goals.
Alongside cutting carbon emissions by 2030, it wants to positively impact 10 million people through digital skills training and empowerment programmes.
A resilient, inclusive Bangladesh
Grameenphone’s sustainability journey reflects its commitment to not only reducing its environmental impact but also empowering people through digital inclusion and online safety. Tanveer concluded,
“We want to build a greener, more inclusive Bangladesh—one where people are empowered with the skills they need to succeed in a digital economy.”
With its bold carbon reduction target, ongoing environmental initiatives, and deep social impact, Grameenphone is paving the way for a sustainable and resilient future in Bangladesh.
