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Table of Contents
Sustainability in IT: More than just a trend
Why traditional phone systems consume energy and resources
Cloud communication as a greener alternative
How NFON actively contributes to CO₂ reduction
Conclusion: Modern communication for a cleaner future
1. Sustainability in IT: More than just a trend
An increasing number of companies are setting ambitious environmental targets. While logistics and production are usually the first to be optimised, IT infrastructure holds significant potential for reducing carbon emissions.
Telephony, in particular, is often overlooked in sustainability strategies, yet switching to a cloud-based system offers multiple benefits: lower energy consumption, reduced hardware, and virtualised infrastructure that enables digital-first operations.
2. Why traditional phone systems consume energy and resources
Conventional ISDN or VoIP systems rely on local hardware such as servers, switches and desktop phones, all of which require electricity, cooling and maintenance. Even when not in use, these systems consume power and take up physical space.
Key sustainability issues with legacy systems:
High energy use in server rooms
Frequent hardware replacement cycles
Logistics footprint from installation and maintenance
Difficult or non-recyclable components
The result? Significant carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle, from manufacturing and deployment to operation and disposal.
3. Cloud communication as a greener alternative
Cloud telephony runs fully over the internet. No physical PBX, no proprietary hardware. Employees can use softphones, mobile apps or browser clients to make and receive calls, from anywhere.
Sustainability benefits of cloud communication:
Minimal hardware: No need for on-premise phone systems
Lower energy use: Hosted in modern, energy-efficient data centres
Longer equipment lifecycle through virtualisation
No technician visits = fewer transport emissions
Reuse of existing laptops and devices
Cloud solutions also enable remote work, which reduces commuting and office energy consumption, further shrinking your company’s carbon footprint.
4. How NFON actively contributes to CO₂ reduction
As a leading European provider of cloud communication solutions, NFON is measurably committed to sustainability and climate protection:
Total CO₂ Footprint: In 2024, NFON’s total CO₂ footprint amounted to 5,795 tCO₂e.
Renewable Energy: In 2024, 70% of NFON’s electricity consumption came from renewable sources. Since 2017, NFON has operated its data centers entirely on green electricity
Hardware Reduction: By eliminating physical telephone systems and using softphones, browser clients, and apps, NFON avoids electronic waste and significantly reduces resource consumption.
Remote Work: NFON’s cloud communication supports hybrid work models, reducing CO₂ emissions by cutting down on commuting.
Employee Engagement: 100% of NFON employees are involved in the company’s environmental and DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) strategy.
Diversity: 33% of NFON’s workforce is female.
Long-Term Sustainability: NFON is pursuing a decarbonization strategy, aiming for ISO 50001 certification, and achieved a B rating in the 2024 CDP SME rating.
5795tCO₂e Total carbon footprint in 2024 | 100% Employees covered by NFON’s environmental and DEI policies | 70% Electricity consumption from renewable sources in 2024 | 33% Female representation in the workforce |
Through these comprehensive measures, NFON demonstrates that cloud communication is not only flexible and efficient but also actively contributes to CO₂ reduction and a sustainable future — without compromising on functionality, security, or GDPR compliance.
5. Conclusion: Modern communication for a cleaner future
Cloud communication is a powerful lever for sustainable IT. It reduces energy use, eliminates unnecessary hardware and supports remote work, all of which contribute to lower CO₂ emissions.
With NFON, businesses don’t have to choose between performance and planet. You get a future-proof, compliant and climate-conscious communication solution, ready for the challenges ahead.
👉 Take the next step and make your business communications more sustainable with NFON.
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