Low-carbon procurement

The model for reducing energy consumption and emissions across the Telefónica Group requires the introduction of certain specific criteria in the product and service procurement model used in the Group's operations.

The focus of the Suppliers element of the Climate Change Office's action programme, which is led by the Telefónica S.A. Procurement and Shared Services Division, is to implement policies and procedures that ensure the company takes account of energy efficiency criteria in its product and service procurement processes.

Thus, in 2008, the inclusion of energy variables in procurement processes was made obligatory and specific energy information forms were developed for certain product lines (network equipment, heating and air conditioning systems and computer equipment).

In the course of 2009 this system will also be applied to equipment intended for sale to customers, and will be a variable taken into consideration when comparing bids.

The attributes to be considered will include average energy consumption, both in stand-by mode and at maximum capacity.