One NZ has had its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets officially verified by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), marking a major milestone in the company’s climate action journey.

The validation confirms that One NZ’s targets align with a 1.5°C warming pathway – the most ambitious standard under the Paris Agreement – and places the company among a growing number of infrastructure and telco operators globally adopting science-based targets.

The achievement means One NZ is the first telco in Aotearoa New Zealand to commit to absolute near-term reductions for Scope 3 emissions.

“New Zealanders are increasingly scrutinising climate action, not just ambition. Now we’ve got the global gold standard saying our targets stack up,” says Juliet Jones, One NZ Chief Corporate Officer. “It’s a clear signal that One NZ is serious about managing long-term climate risk and investing in digital infrastructure that’s fit for the future.”

One NZ has set near-term science-based targets using FY24 (1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024) as its baseline year – the company’s first full year operating as One NZ following its transition from Vodafone NZ.

In the latest financial year (1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025), One NZ achieved a 64% year-on-year reduction in Scope 1, 2, and selected Scope 3 emissions, including a 94% cut in electricity-related emissions following its move to 100% renewable electricity for directly purchased power. Full Scope 3 mapping for FY25 is underway to assess progress against the newly verified science-based targets.

The company has also introduced AI-powered energy efficiency measures across its mobile network. “We’re using smart tech, better energy, and plain old common sense to run a more efficient business that’s better for the planet – and better for our bottom line too,” says Juliet.

One of the key innovations is the use of machine learning to analyse network traffic patterns and reduce energy use by dynamically switching parts of the mobile network off or down when demand is low, effectively putting cell sites into ‘micro sleeps’ overnight or during quiet periods. This approach helped save 16 GWh (gigawatt hours) of electricity in FY25, reducing total energy use by around 14%.

The announcement comes as climate performance becomes an increasing focus for both customers and investors, particularly as the rise of AI presents new energy challenges.

One NZ’s recent AI Trust Report shows just under half (48%) of New Zealanders are concerned about the high energy consumption of AI data centres. At the same time, 39% believe AI can help by optimising energy use – a potential One NZ is actively realising through initiatives like AI-powered network optimisation.

This work sits within One NZ’s broader sustainability kaupapa, underpinned by the values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and a long-term view of what it means to be a responsible, future-ready business in Aotearoa.

Juliet adds: “Whether it’s replacing diesel generators with batteries, supporting wider decarbonisation efforts, or redesigning stores using recycled materials, One NZ is focused on practical actions that reduce emissions, support resilience, and create long-term value for our customers and New Zealanders more broadly.”

For more information, please visit https://one.nz/our-company/corporate-responsibility/

Notes: In having its targets validated by the SBTi, One NZ has officially committed to the following:

• Reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 42% by financial year 2030 from a financial year 2024 base year.
• Increase active annual sourcing of renewable electricity from 0% in financial year 2024 to 100% by financial year 2030.
• Reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions 42% by financial year 2030 from a financial year 2024 base year.

As part of the target-setting process, One NZ developed a comprehensive GHG inventory covering Scopes 1 and 2, and full Scope 3 emissions, giving a more accurate and complete picture of its emissions profile for the first time. Full Scope 3 mapping for FY25 is underway to assess progress against the newly verified science-based targets.