One NZ has been awarded the Sustainability Champion title at The Fast Mode Awards, recognised in the Innovation category.
The Fast Mode Awards, hosted by global telecoms publication The Fast Mode, celebrate the technologies, initiatives and organisations driving meaningful change across the industry. Winners are selected from network operators, technology providers and industry leaders worldwide.
One NZ was recognised for our clear progress toward our 2030 climate targets and the practical steps we’re taking across the business to reduce emissions, waste and energy use.
Aligned to our 2030 Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)-approved goals and our plan to transition to 100% renewable electricity, we reduced total Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 64% in FY25.
We’re also delivering a multi-year energy optimisation programme across our network – reducing hardware intensity, improving cooling efficiency and lowering overall energy consumption to cut Scope 2 emissions.
Over the past year we’ve expanded initiatives to reduce waste and extend the life of devices and equipment:
- Processed 4.4 tonnes of customer devices through trade-in and reuse programmes
- Launched a new device repair portal to support circularity
- Processed approximately 60 tonnes of redundant network technology, with 97.5% diverted from landfill
- Introduced paperless contracts across our offices, saving 135,000 sheets of paper and 54,000 litres of water annually
Together, these initiatives reflect our practical, organisation-wide approach to waste reduction and resource efficiency.
Recognised for innovation and impact
Entries were assessed across performance, innovation, impact and growth. One NZ stood out in the Innovation category for our integrated approach to energy efficiency, waste reduction and digital transformation across nationwide operations.
Submissions were evaluated by an independent panel of senior leaders from major telecom and academic organisations, including IEEE, ETSI and ETH Zurich.
“For this year’s Sustainability Champion title, the focus was not just on selecting a winner who demonstrated measurable emission reductions or a lower carbon footprint, but those who exemplified a commitment to sustainability across every aspect of their work and networks, with a deeper understanding of the role the telecoms industry plays in achieving an environmentally-responsible global future,” said Tara Neal, Executive Editor of The Fast Mode. “One NZ stood out with its balanced and thorough approach that incorporates AI, digital transformation, and circular practices with core Māori principles that promote equity and intergenerational responsibility for a more resilient future.”
“As we say here at One NZ, doing good is good business”, said Nicky Preston, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at One NZ. “This award is precisely what we seek to be – a true Sustainability Champion – and we are honored to be recognized for our the work to build trust and a better-connected commitment we show in making the world a more sustainable place for communities in Aotearoa. This award validates the efforts of our teams and partners who are pioneering practical, innovative solutions that deliver real impact for both people and the planet.”
In 2025, One NZ ranked #2 in Oceania and #25 globally in the GRESB Infrastructure Benchmark for the data transmission sector, achieving a score of 93/100 for ESG performance.
We’ve also continued to share our sustainability progress publicly, including the release of the One NZ AI Trust Report 2025, which explores how technology can improve efficiency, reduce waste and deliver positive social impact.
To learn more about One NZ, visit www.one.nz.
For full Fast Mode Awards results, visit www.thefastmode.com/awards/results/telco.