- Going green doesn’t just mean switching energy providers
- A green Internet provider can save you money and help you to give back
- Learn which telcos are the best green Internet providers out there
Concerns about climate change are growing steadily, and more people are becoming aware of this issue. As a result, some individuals now research companies' environmental practices before doing business with them.
The ethical shopping movement extends beyond food and clothing to include utilities like waste disposal, water, and electricity. Many people avoid brands that lack environmental ethics and opt for those committed to sustainability.
Australians, in particular, are mindful of their carbon footprint. We understand that taking action can be challenging, especially during a cost of living crisis. That's why we've researched to help you find green Internet providers in Australia that benefit the environment.
What makes an Internet provider green?
To qualify as a green Internet provider, several criteria must be met, including the use of renewable energy, waste reduction, and recycling practices.
General environmental criteria:
- Emissions (including offsets)
- Percentage of the business powered by renewable sources
- Efforts to avoid landfill waste
- Targets for emissions, renewable energy use, and waste reduction
- Publicly available climate change plan
- External accreditation and benchmarks
Sector-specific criteria:
- Recycling or refurbishing electrical waste
- Using energy-efficient equipment
- Offering discounts or incentives for sustainable purchases or behaviours
- Providing carbon-neutral products
These factors help determine the overall environmental impact and sustainability practices of an Internet provider.
How to spot a green Internet provider
A carbon-neutral Internet plan ensures that the carbon emissions generated by the business supplying the plan are offset by projects designed to remove an equivalent amount of carbon from the atmosphere. This process includes:
- Calculating the business's emissions
- Developing a reduction strategy
- Purchasing carbon offsets
- Auditing data
- Maintaining an up-to-date public summary of the claim
Wondering how to identify an environmentally friendly Internet service provider? There are several indicators of an ISP's commitment to environmental ethics. Generally, you can start by looking at its environmental initiatives. An ISP is likely eco-conscious if it:
- Supports company-wide environmental initiatives
- Uses sustainable materials in its operations whenever possible
- Encourages employees to participate in environmental preservation events
- Uses renewable energy sources
Additionally, check the ISP's infrastructure to ensure its facilities comply with environmental codes of ethics.
Why you should go green with your Internet service provider
Internet and mobile phone companies produce a lot of greenhouse gas emissions, similar to the aviation industry. Opting for a green or sustainable telecom provider helps reduce this impact. It's like supporting the environment without changing your daily routine: passive activism.
Just as people support small businesses, choose renewable energy providers, or buy cruelty-free beauty products, you can also be eco-conscious with your phone and Internet providers.
Usually, choosing a telecom provider is about balancing cost and benefits. The providers in this article offer great value and are also environmentally friendly.
Types of green Internet connection
There are a lot of different Internet connection types out there and all differ from one another, this means not all of them are eco-friendly. To give you an idea of those that are, here's a breakdown of each type of Internet connection.
- Fibre optic Internet: Uses light to transmit data, making it more energy-efficient and reliable compared to traditional copper wires.
- Green wireless networks: Use energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to power its operations.
- Satellite Internet with renewable energy: Providers that use solar panels or other renewable energy sources to power its satellites and ground stations.
- Hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC): Combines fibre optic and coaxial cable, reducing the need for energy-intensive equipment.
- Community Wi-Fi networks: Locally managed networks that often use sustainable practices and renewable energy sources.
- Mesh networks: Distribute Internet traffic across multiple nodes, which can be powered by renewable energy and optimised for energy efficiency.
Top 3 green Internet providers
Belong
As the first company to offer certified carbon-neutral plans in Australia, Belong provides a range of great Internet plans.
For those seeking budget-friendly, eco-friendly options, Belong stands out with features like unlimited data banking and international add-ons, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Telstra
Telstra is dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality. It provides a broad selection of Internet and mobile plans while actively working to reduce its environmental footprint.
Its initiatives include harnessing renewable energy sources and enhancing energy efficiency throughout its operations, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability.
Optus
Optus is making impressive progress in sustainability, aiming for net-zero emissions. It offers a diverse range of Internet and mobile plans and has adopted several eco-friendly practices to lower its carbon footprint.
These efforts include using renewable energy and enhancing operational efficiency to support its commitment to the environment.
These energy providers not only provide carbon-neutral plans but also actively strive for sustainability and minimise its environmental footprint.
Connect with Compare Broadband
If you’re looking to switch to a green Internet provider, don’t hesitate to call Compare Broadband. Our Australian-based team can walk you through available plans and providers that are on the list for being eco-friendly, budget-friendly and better for your family. Contact us today on 1300 764 000 for more information.
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