▪ The German ICT associations welcome the fact that the German G7 presidency will provide impetus for digitalization and sustainability

▪ Digitalization based on energy-efficient infrastructures holds great potential for achieving climate targets

▪ A joint association paper proposes measures on how digitalization and sustainability can be discussed together nationally and internationally

Berlin, 11 May 2022: On the occasion of the G7 Digital Ministers’ Meeting, the associations of the German ICT industry are calling for a holistic view of digitalization and sustainability in a national and international context. On the one hand, the use of digital infrastructures and technologies makes it possible to save enormous resources across sectors. On the other hand, digitalization consumes energy through the use of devices and network operation, which will be continuously optimized in the interests of sustainable business.

Modern telecommunications networks and data centers make a significant contribution to greater climate protection and sustainability. With the help of digitalization and closely meshed network infrastructures, future-proof concepts for a sustainable society can be created. The ongoing expansion of the fiber optic network, both in the fixed network and in mobile communications, is making digital infrastructures increasingly energy-efficient. The careful use of available resources is crucial in all areas of life. Prompt and uninterrupted communication via modern network infrastructures is an important lever in this implementation.

The associations believe that these issues need to be coordinated with policymakers at national and international level. In a joint paper, the associations propose measures on core topics such as energy efficiency, efficient grid expansion, the circular economy and sustainability through digitalization, which are also relevant internationally and require significantly greater attention.