The past years, Telia Company has partnered with Augur on several trend reports, ranging from digital security to tomorrow’s enterprises. During the autumn and winter of 2025, we explored opportunities that can be derived when 5G, IoT and AI are leveraged to help organizations not just drive a sustainability agenda but also improve business performance. The result is the trend report The Enablement Effect.
Advanced connectivity and IoT asthe backbone of a sustainable society
Organizations are undergoing two interconnected shifts: digitalization and sustainability, reshaping business models, customer expectations, and the role of suppliers. As sustainability moves from ambition to accountability, organizations increasingly seek partners who deliver measurable value while advancing climate and resilience goals.
99% of CEOs are staying the course on sustainability
Connectivity and digital infrastructure are essential foundations of modern society, yet their sustainability value is not always visible or fully realized. Organizations risk missing opportunities to use digital solutions to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and accelerate progress toward their sustainability goals.
”Emerging technologies as 5G, AI, and IoT can work together to create greater impact. When 5G, AI and IoT are combined, they unlock potential far beyond what each can deliver on its own, enabling transformation towards more sustainable and profitable solutions.”
Leveraging different perspectives to shape a point of view on future opportunities
For this study, we used a mixed research methodology combining primary and secondary qualitative and quantitative data from multiple sources. In addition to rigorous desk research, we talked to leading experts in the field, both from within and outside Telia, as well as layering in insights from Telia’s Digital Index report.
Lastly, we conducted in-depth interviews with Businessand Sustainability decision makers at large enterprises and organizationa cross various industries in Telia’s key markets in the Nordics and Baltics. Contributing organizations range from the private to public sector, including Volvo, Ericsson, Trafikverket, Lerums municipality, Fortum, PostNord, Kavli and Neste.
The Enabelement Effect: a multiplier for positive impact
The ICT sector, including telcos, accounts for roughly 1.5% of global GHG emissions. At the same time, estimates suggest it could help reduce emissions across other industries by up to 15% by 2030.
6X emissionsreduction potential in other industries through Telia’s digital services
This is known as the enablement effect: the emissions reductions digital technologies enable in other sectors compared with the ICT sector’s own footprint. Through connectivity, data and automation, digital solutions can optimize processes, reduce energy use and travel, and improve resource efficiency. This highlights ICT’s wider system-level impact and its potential to accelerate emissions reductions far beyond the sector itself.
The report highlights the business opportunities created by aligning sustainability agendas with business performance.
Download the report here: https://www.teliacompany.com/sv/enablement-effect-report
About Telia Company
Telia is a leading telecommunications operator in the Nordic and Baltic regions. They are delivering world class connectivity and communications services to 26 million mobile, broadband, and TV customers. Telia is enabling people, businesses and societies to thrive, grow and stay connected 24/7/365.
Thought Leadership with Augur
Augur are experts at combining cultural insights and strategic foresight to unlock future perspectives. Curious to learn more? Feel free to reach out to Jenny Lycke, Foresight Director, at jenny@augur.se.