Telefónica ESG 2024: key indicators and progress toward a sustainable model

Telefónica reaffirms its leadership in sustainability with the release of its ESG Profile 2024 and ESG Data Book. Both publications present the core ESG indicators—environmental, social, and governance—aligned with CSRD regulation and ESRS standards. This sustainability strategy aims to transform connectivity into a positive impact driver, solidifying Telefónica’s position as a leading reference in sustainable practices within the telecommunications sector.

A sustainability strategy aligned with SDGs and European regulations

Since 2021, Telefónica has carried out a double materiality analysis, identifying the impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs) that shape its long-term sustainability roadmap. In 2024, this assessment was validated against ESRS standards, reinforcing the connection between operational objectives, financial performance, and the responsible management of environmental and social impacts. 

Environment: energy efficiency, circular economy, and net-zero emissions 

Telefónica remains committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, with targets validated by the SBTi initiative. 

By the end of 2024: 

• Scope 1 and 2 emissions were reduced by 84.8% compared to 2015, and Scope 3 emissions by 31.3% compared to 2016. 
• 100% of electricity in core markets is sourced from renewables, and 89% globally. 
• Eco Smart digital services certified by AENOR helped avoid 17.4 million tons of CO₂ emissions. 
• 95% of waste was reused or recycled, including over 5 million electronic devices. 
• Telefónica continues to foster the circular economy through innovative digital tools such as MAIA and blockchain-based traceability platforms. 

People: inclusion, Diversity, and Purpose-Driven Talent

The Telefónica ESG strategy also embraces a social pillar focused on inclusion, diversity, and human rights, promoting equitable access and professional development. In 2024: 

• Mobile broadband coverage in rural areas reached 95% in Spain, 99% in Germany, and 84% in Brazil. 
• 34% of executive roles are held by women, moving toward the 2027 target of 37%. 
• Telefónica recorded an eNPS of 75 points, exceeding its yearly goal. 
• The company enhanced workplace safety and offered digital training to more than 1,166,072 million individuals through Fundación Telefónica. 

Governance: ethics, transparency, and sustainable governance 

With a dedicated sustainability committee at the board level since 2002, Telefónica’s model of sustainable governance continues to strengthen: 

• Telefónica ranks first in the Digital Rights index. 
• No significant breaches of personal data were reported in 2024. 
• 37.4% of corporate financing is linked to ESG indicators, progressing toward the 40% target by 2026. 
• Over 20,800 supplier audits ensured adherence to sustainability criteria. 
• Telefónica also updated its ethical principles for Artificial Intelligence.  

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