Telstra Smart Modem 3 Environmental Product Summary

Taking environmental action

Telstra's Environment Strategy aims to accelerate efforts to tackle climate change and foster a more sustainable future by using resources more efficiently. The company is committed to reducing its emissions footprint, optimising resource usage, minimising consumption and waste, and investing in circular solutions designed for sustainability across their lifecycle. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework is employed to evaluate environmental impacts and enhance environmental performance throughout a product's life cycle. The LCA methodology for the Smart Modem 3 adheres to ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards, having undergone peer review and assessment for compliance against ISO 14044.

System boundaries

The LCA cradle-to-grave stages for the product life cycle include:

• Manufacturing: Extraction and processing of raw materials, including recycled materials; production and assembly of electronic components; and packaging.
• Distribution: All aspects related to the transport of the finished product and packaging to customers in Australia.
• Use: Three years of product use.
• End of life: Product and packaging end-of-life treatment.

Relevant environmental impact indicators

A bar chart illustrates environmental impact categories: Particulate matter emissions, Climate change, Acidification, Resource use (Fossil fuel), and Resource use (Metals & Minerals). Each category is broken down by lifecycle stage: Manufacturing, Distribution, Use, and End of life, showing the percentage contribution of each stage. (Note: Distribution and End of life product stages represent 1% or less of the product life cycle across these five impact categories).

The data presented highlights the five key impact categories contributing to the product's total environmental impact across its life cycle. These results will continue to inform Telstra's design and development of future products to improve environmental performance. Find out more about the Five ways we're designing for a better environment at telstra.com.au.

Materials Used

Telstra is designing more circular solutions to keep materials in circulation for as long as possible. By changing the modem colour from white to black, recycled plastics could be used in the Smart Modem 3. The enclosure is made from 85% post-consumer recycled plastics, helping to divert plastics from landfills and oceans. This recycled material content is certified to the UL 2809 Environmental Claim Validation Procedure (ECVP) for Recycled Content. Under the UL standard, post-consumer material is defined as material that has reached its intended end user and is no longer used for its original purpose. Optimising material use and sourcing recycled materials are key design principles to conserve resources and energy.

A pie chart details the composition of the 0.51 kg of recycled plastics used in the enclosure. Materials include Recycled Polycarbonate (3%), PVC (2%), Ferrites (3%), Epoxy (4%), Steel (4%), Copper (4%), Glass fiber (5%), Other (7%), Cardboard (17%), Aluminium (18%), and Recycled ABS Plastic (33%).

Carbon Footprint

The lifecycle carbon footprint of the Smart Modem 3 was calculated to identify opportunities for emissions reductions. Telstra acknowledges that its products consume energy and contribute 8% to its scope 3 emissions. The company is committed to tackling climate change by improving energy efficiency in modem design. For instance, energy-efficient chipsets have been installed, efficient power supply units provided, and the Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) module removed. (Note: Scope 3 emissions are those associated with upstream and downstream activities outside operational control. The percentage is based on FY22 scope 3 emissions profile.)

A donut chart displays the lifecycle carbon footprint of 275 kg CO2-e, broken down by stage: Manufacturing (15%), Distribution (0.16%), Use (85%), and End of life (0.02%).

The emissions calculated for the use phase are based on active (12.8W, 9hr/day) and standby (9.4W, 15hr/day) modes representative of modem use case scenarios. Modem energy consumption data was measured in a lab in accordance with ISO 17025 code of conduct on energy consumption of broadband equipment. (Note: With the uptake of smartphones and video calls, landline phone usage has decreased, creating an opportunity for DECT module removal. Customers can still connect wireless landlines via base stations to the modem. Modem active and standby modes are based on the Code of conduct on energy consumption of broadband equipment version 8.0, Commission regulation (EC) No 1275/2008 and Commission regulation (EU) No 801/2013).

Sustainable Packaging

Packaging for the Smart Modem 3 is 100% recyclable and contains zero plastics, with over 75% of the packaging made from recycled material. The design process optimises material use to minimise waste while ensuring product protection. Telstra aims not only to make packaging more sustainable but also to help customers recycle correctly by applying the Australian Recycling Label (ARL). Telstra's sustainable packaging design efforts were recognised with the Gold Award for Sustainable Design at the 2021 Pentawards and the Good Design Award Gold Accolade at the 2021 Good Design Awards for outstanding design and innovation.

An image showcases the product packaging, highlighting its 100% recyclable board, prominent Australian Recycling Label (ARL) logos, a magnet slot without adhesive, a structural cavity for cables secured by Velcro strips instead of plastic ties, and internal structure supporting the modem.

Telstra eCycle Program

Telstra is helping customers reduce the number of unwanted devices (mobile phones, tablets, accessories, modems, routers, home phones, smartwatches, etc.) by providing convenient reuse and recycling options, contributing to a more circular economy. The Telstra eCycle Program is powered by MobileMuster®, demonstrating Telstra's commitment to responsible device disposal. You can recycle your old modems and devices at any Telstra store or use the free Telstra eParcel option to package your old devices at home for recycling. Check out our recycling page for more details on the Telstra eCycle Program.

(Note: Telstra is a member of the Australian Packaging Covenant (APCO) and a founding member of MobileMuster, an industry-accredited product stewardship program.)