At TXO, we know that network decommissioning is more than just switching off old infrastructure—it’s a balancing act between cost, efficiency, and sustainability. But what are the key drivers behind decommissioning, and how can operators turn this challenge into an opportunity?
Why network decommissioning is a priority
Our research shows that 83% of communication providers are either actively decommissioning parts of their network or planning to do so soon. With legacy hardware becoming increasingly difficult to maintain, operators are facing a familiar set of challenges. The most common reasons for decommissioning include hardware no longer being supported by OEMs, reducing power consumption for sustainability, and cutting operational expenditure (OPEX).
However, decommissioning isn’t always straightforward. The cost of upgrading technology remains the biggest hurdle, with 44% of operators citing it as a major challenge. In addition, a shortage of skilled engineers (29%) means that auditing and replacing outdated assets is often a slow and complex process.
The rise of the circular economy
Despite these challenges, decommissioning presents a unique opportunity to rethink how we manage telecom assets. Instead of scrapping hardware entirely, more operators are embracing the circular economy—an approach that extends the lifespan of equipment through resale, reuse, and responsible recycling.
Our research found that:
- 78% of operators resell a portion of their decommissioned hardware
- 80% recycle some of their retired equipment
This shift is being driven not just by sustainability targets, but also by the need to recover value from legacy infrastructure. By adopting circular economy principles, operators can reduce waste, lower costs, and improve efficiency—without compromising on performance.
A success story: BT’s decommissioning strategy
One of the most compelling examples of sustainable decommissioning comes from BT. As part of its strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2031, BT has already recovered over 200 tonnes of copper cable and more than 2,000 tonnes of lead batteries from its legacy network.
This approach demonstrates how decommissioning can be both financially and environmentally beneficial, turning old equipment into a valuable resource rather than a burden.
How TXO helps operators future-proof their networks
At TXO, we specialise in helping operators navigate the complexities of decommissioning. Our expertise in hardware reuse, asset recovery, and responsible recycling ensures that decommissioning isn’t just about retiring old networks—it’s about creating value, reducing waste, and preparing for the future.