ESG 在電信塔開發中的重要性
Importance of ESG in Telecom Tower Development 

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關鍵點:

• 隨著新冠肺炎 (COVID-19) 的傳播，電信業成為不斷增長的行業，導致數位服務需求增加

• 不斷增長的需求顯示該行業更多地接觸社會的各個方面，例如資料安全和環境問題

• 隨著ESG 的重要性影響公司和其他利害關係人的成長，ESG 產業整合正在不斷成長

• Harmoni Towers 是大力達成 ESG 目標的例子之一

        根據對全球電信塔市場的最新研究，2022 年市場價值達到 449.9804 億美元。預測表明，到 2028 年預計將達到 573.9829 億美元，複合年增長率 (CAGR) 為 41.4%。預測期。 隨著新冠肺炎 (COVID-19) 的傳播，電信業被視為一項基本服務，因此在很大程度上避免了與新冠肺炎 (COVID-19) 相關的重大限制，例如居家令和隔離要求。 隨著越來越多的人在家工作並依靠視訊會議舉行會議，數據流量的短期激增和寬頻服務使用的增加，一些電信公司的實力得到了加強。 流量的成長凸顯了對連線和數位服務的日益依賴。 因此，在這場危機中，電信業相對於標準普爾 500 指數表現出了韌性。 電信在連接全球人民和企業、推動經濟成長和實現數位轉型方面發揮著至關重要的作用。

        電信業是一個處於技術發展前沿的充滿活力的行業，正在見證各種社會和環境因素推動的轉型變革。 在社會方面，人口結構變化和大趨勢在塑造消費者偏好以及電信服務需求方面發揮關鍵作用。 社群媒體的影響和日益增強的連接性已引導消費者轉向基於無線和寬頻的頂級電視服務，這與傳統選擇不同。 鑑於該產業對長期資產的依賴，這種源自於人口結構變化的轉變對資本配置和資本回報產生了實際的影響。 此外，資料安全和系統穩定性風險又增加了一層複雜性。 鑑於該行業的廣泛影響力，與資料安全和系統穩定性相關的事件會產生顯著的影響。 設備供應商的安全問題可能引發監管行動，影響公眾認知，並導致價格波動和專案延遲。 此外，人力資本管理也帶來了挑戰，因為該行業龐大的工會勞動力帶來了與基礎設施維護相關的安全風險。 與暴露於 5G 設備電磁頻率輻射相關的潛在健康問題可能會改變消費者的看法和服務使用。

        從環境角度來看，儘管該行業的能源強度低於其他行業，但能源使用和溫室氣體排放構成了關鍵問題。 電信公司正透過提高能源效率積極解決這個問題，Telefonica 和 Verizon 等產業巨頭發行的綠色債券就是例證。 光纖到府（FTTH）的更廣泛部署被認為是實現節能目標的策略性舉措。 雖然氣候變遷風險的影響不大，但重點關注極端天氣事件，但如果研究證實負面後果，則可能會出現與電磁頻率 (EMF) 輻射對健康的影響相關的潛在環境風險。

        在治理方面，該行業正在應對公司和地區特定的挑戰。 治理風險涉及解決新興市場司法管轄權的不確定性，從而引發監管和訴訟風險。 政府行為，例如對 IP 語音 (VOIP) 服務的限制，可能會直接影響運營，從而影響資料使用和收入潛力。 在某些地區，電信業者的職能類似公用事業，其服務義務會影響資本支出和資本回報。 隨著電信業的不斷發展，對這些相互關聯的社會和環境維度的細緻了解對於永續和彈性運作至關重要。

        電信公司正積極應對 ESG（環境、社會和治理）風險，並利用機會提高其信用度和整體績效。 一個關鍵焦點是該行業對減少碳排放和實現碳中和的承諾。 大約三分之一的無線營運商已承諾採取符合《巴黎協定》的能源效率措施。 5G 網路以低延遲和高數據容量而聞名，其實施有助於改變製造業、農業和城市規劃等傳統碳密集型產業，促進永續發展。 數位包容性是另一個優先事項，電信營運商正在擴展和升級網絡，以確保服務不足的地理區域和少數族裔能夠獲得數位網路和服務。 該倡議旨在創造社會機會、創造就業機會、刺激經濟發展並擴大服務可近性。 在海量網路資料時代，隱私和言論自由是至關重要的考量。 電信公司必須極為謹慎地處理客戶和用戶數據，以保護隱私和維護言論自由。 未能保護客戶隱私不僅會導致客戶流失，還會使公司面臨法律後果。 健全的程序和準則對於防止潛在的財務和聲譽損害至關重要。

        為了了解電信塔開發中的 ESG 實踐，Harmoni Towers 作為電信基礎設施領域的知名參與者，堅定致力於將環境、社會和治理 (ESG) 考量納入其商業精神。 該公司認識到，有效的 ESG 管理不僅對於緩解風險至關重要，而且對於利用機會、促進創新以及創造安全和支持性的工作場所也至關重要。 懷著成為電信基礎設施領域領導者的願景，Harmoni 概述了關鍵 ESG 維度的具體承諾。

        在環境方面，Harmoni 承諾嚴格遵守聯邦、州和地方法規，強調遵守法規的重要性。 該公司還透過評估生物多樣性議題以及投資節能技術和再生能源，展現了對環境影響的正面立場。 在社會領域，Harmoni 致力於培育包容和多元化的職場文化，優先考慮平等、尊重和協作。 健康和安全至關重要，公司鼓勵員工不斷改進。 Harmoni 進一步與當地社區合作，透過合作夥伴關係和慈善事業支持企業和組織。 在治理方面，Harmoni 始終致力於遵守最高的道德和誠信標準。 本公司定期向董事會報告ESG績效，並指定高階管理層負責ESG監督。 全面的 ESG 政策涵蓋 Harmoni Towers 營運的各個方面，從對環境永續性和社會包容性的承諾到對道德治理的堅定不移的奉獻。 政策不是一成不變的； 它會定期進行審查和修訂，以確保其符合不斷發展的標準，並與公司致力於負責任和可持續的業務實踐保持持久的相關性。

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Importance of ESG in Telecom Tower Development 

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Key points

• Telecom industry is the growing industry amids the spread of COVID-19 leading to higher demand in digital services

• The growing demands shows more exposure of the industry with different aspect of the society such as data security and environmental concerns

• ESG integration in the industry is growing as the importance of ESG impact the growth of company and other stakeholders

• Harmoni Towers is one of the example that strongly work towards achieving ESG goals

      According to the most recent research on the global Telecom Tower market, the market’s value reached USD 44,998.04 million in 2022. Projections indicate that it is anticipated to reach USD 57,398.29 million by 2028, demonstrating a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 41.4% during the forecast period. With the spread of COVID-19, the telecommunications sector has largely avoided significant COVID-19 related restrictions, such as stay-at-home orders and quarantine requirements, given its recognition as an essential service. Some telecom companies have been strengthened by the short-term spike in data traffic and increased use of broadband services, as more people are working from home and rely on video conferencing to hold meetings. The growth in traffic has underscored the increased dependence on connectivity and digital services. Consequently, the telecom sector has exhibited resilience relative to the S&P500 through the crisis. With the crucial role of telecommunication in connecting people and businesses worldwide, driving economic growth, and enabling the digital transformation. 

  The telecommunications sector, a dynamic industry at the forefront of technological evolution, is witnessing transformational shifts propelled by various social and environmental factors. On the social front, Demographic Shifts and Megatrends play a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences and, consequently, the demand for telecom services. The impact of social media and increasing connectivity has steered consumers towards wireless and broadband-based over-the-top TV services, diverging from traditional options. This shift, rooted in changing demographics, has tangible repercussions on capital allocation and return on capital, given the sector's reliance on long-lived assets. Furthermore, Data Security and System Stability Risks add another layer of complexity. Incidents related to data security and system stability have a pronounced impact, given the extensive reach of the sector. Security issues with equipment suppliers can trigger regulatory actions, influence public perception, and cause pricing fluctuations and project delays. Additionally, Human Capital Management poses challenges, with the sector's large, unionized workforce introducing safety risks associated with infrastructure maintenance. Potential health concerns related to exposure to electromagnetic frequency radiation from 5G equipment may alter consumer perceptions and service usage.

   From an environmental perspective, Energy Usage and Greenhouse Gas Emissions constitute critical concerns despite the sector's lower energy intensity compared to others. Telecom companies are proactively addressing this by enhancing energy efficiency, exemplified by the issuance of green bonds by industry giants like Telefonica and Verizon. The wider deployment of Fiber to the home (FTTH) is identified as a strategic move to achieve energy reduction targets. While Climate Change Risks have a modest impact, focusing on extreme weather events, potential environmental risks linked to the perceived health effects of electromagnetic frequency (EMF) radiation may emerge if studies corroborate negative consequences.

      On the governance front, the sector grapples with company- and region-specific challenges. Governance Exposure involves navigating jurisdictional uncertainties in emerging markets, giving rise to regulatory and litigation risks. Government actions, such as restrictions on Voice over IP (VOIP) services, can directly impact operations, affecting data usage and revenue potential. In certain regions, telecom operators function akin to public utilities, subject to service obligations that influence capital expenditure and return on capital. As the telecom sector continues to evolve, a nuanced understanding of these interconnected social and environmental dimensions is crucial for sustainable and resilient operations.

   Telecom companies are actively addressing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) risks and capitalizing on opportunities to enhance their creditworthiness and overall performance. One key focus is the industry's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. Approximately one-third of wireless carriers have pledged to energy efficiency initiatives aligned with the Paris Agreement. The implementation of 5G networks, known for low latency and high data capacity, contributes to transforming traditionally carbon-intensive sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and urban planning, fostering sustainability. Digital inclusion is another priority, where telecom operators are expanding and upgrading networks to ensure access to digital networks and services for underserved geographic regions and minorities. This initiative aims to create social opportunities, generate jobs, spur economic development, and broaden service accessibility. Privacy and freedom of speech are critical considerations in the era of extensive network data. Telecom companies must handle client and user data with utmost care to safeguard privacy and uphold freedom of speech. Failure to protect customer privacy not only risks customer loss but also exposes companies to legal ramifications. Robust procedures and guidelines are essential to prevent potential financial and reputational harm.

In order to understand ESG practices in telecom tower development, Harmoni Towers is a prominent player in telecommunications infrastructure, is steadfast in its commitment to incorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into its business ethos. The company recognizes that effective ESG management is pivotal not only for risk mitigation but also for capitalizing on opportunities, fostering innovation, and creating a safe and supportive workplace. With a vision to be a leader in the telecommunications infrastructure sector, Harmoni has outlined specific commitments across key ESG dimensions.

   On the environmental front, Harmoni pledges to adhere rigorously to federal, state, and local regulations, emphasizing the importance of regulatory compliance. The company also demonstrates a proactive stance on environmental impact by evaluating biodiversity concerns and investing in energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy. In the social realm, Harmoni focuses on fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace culture, prioritizing equality, respect, and collaboration. Health and safety are paramount, and the company encourages employee input for continuous improvement. Harmoni further engages with local communities, supporting businesses and organizations through partnerships and philanthropy. On the governance side, Harmoni maintains a commitment to the highest standards of ethics and integrity. The company regularly reports on its ESG performance to the Board of Directors and assigns senior management the responsibility of ESG oversight. The comprehensive ESG policy spans across all facets of Harmoni Towers' operations, from its commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusivity to its unwavering dedication to ethical governance. The policy is not static; it undergoes regular review and revision to ensure its alignment with evolving standards and its enduring relevance to the company's dedication to responsible and sustainable business practices.

Photo credit (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/esg-telecom-sector-comprehensive-overview-dr-rakesh-varma-ex-ias-vr-/)

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資料來源 References

ESG. Harmoni Towers. (2023, October 19). https://harmonitowers.com/esg/ 

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Varma Ex-IAS, R. (2023, May 27). ESG in the Telecom Sector: A Comprehensive Overview. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/esg-telecom-sector-comprehensive-overview-dr-rakesh-varma-ex-ias-vr-/ 

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World, M. R. (2023, July 19). Telecom Tower Market in-depth analysis 2023-2030: Forecast predicts tremendous growth (CAGR of 4.14%). LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/telecom-tower-market-in-depth-analysis-2023-2030/