Staying in touch
The challenges
The fast pace of technological evolution, coupled with a throwaway culture has resulted in electrical waste becoming the fastest growing waste stream in the UK. These issues need to be addressed to ensure that the positive contribution that technology brings is not outweighed by the energy it consumes and the waste it generates. The internet provides quick and easy access to an infinite array of online services and entertainment but its 'unmanaged' status has also made it a versatile and powerful medium for illegal behaviour. It is also vital to prevent some communities from becoming digitally excluded from the benefits technology brings, either through lack of money or lack of understanding.
Our view
Technology is playing an ever increasing role in the way we are 'Staying in Touch' in the 21st century. Mobiles and the internet have transformed the way in which businesses and individuals communicate with one another, both in developed and developing societies. Virgin Media believes that digital technology has the power to exert a positive influence over the way we all work and play. The internet is a tremendous medium in which to educate, entertain and spread the word about issues, keeping people informed and up to date. Our companies' key challenge is to ensure that their services are available to as many consumers as possible regardless of location or income. We have a vision for a well-connected world where handsets, communication devices and media services are used safely and responsibly - without producing unnecessary waste.
Our companies' approach
- Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile take back and recycle or reuse equipment
- Virgin Media is managing its digital responsibilities. It was a founding members of the Internet Watch Foundation to help combat problematic online behaviour and is working to provide its customers with affordable alternatives to unlawful file sharing. It is also working towards digital inclusion and literacy through generating greater access to disadvantaged communities
- Virgin Media Pioneers is helping young entrepreneurs through its online video blogging community where they can learn new skills, share ideas and build a business network.
- Virgin Media is looking at ways to reduce its carbon footprint. Its biggest impact is powering its network and operations and it is actively seeking to reduce this.
Quick facts
- In 2010 Virgin Media reduced its carbon footprint by 4 .7 % through a variety of initiatives, the long term target is 15% (scope 1& 2) by 2015 against a 2007 baseline.
- Virgin Media asks suppliers to sign up to a Code of Conduct. In 2010 over 80% of its Group Procurement suppliers signed up, work is underway to ensure the remaining sign up.
- Virgin Media reused or recycled more than 1.7 million set top boxes and mobile phones in 2010.
- Virgin Mobile US' 'Pass it On' scheme encourages users to pass on old phones in exchange for airtime. 110,000 mobile phones were reused in six months.
To find out more information on what we are doing click here
To see Virgin Media's Sustainability website click here
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