Telefonica is taking steps toward sustainability by promoting the refurbishment and reconditioning of Customer Premise Equipment (CPEs), such as modems, routers, and TV set-top boxes, to prevent waste. This initiative is part of Telefonica’s commitment to becoming a Zero Waste company by 2030.
A key component of this strategy is the VICKY platform, a blockchain-based system designed to enhance traceability, monitoring, and control across the value chain of these electronic devices. Since its implementation five years ago, Telefonica has successfully reused 19 million routers and set-top boxes. In 2023, the company achieved an 88 percent collection rate of all equipment, edging closer to its target of 90 percent by 2024.
The VICKY platform improves collection rates and refurbishment processes, thereby extending the equipment’s lifespan. This innovative approach has earned recognition from Gartner and Forbes for fostering a more efficient, faster, simpler, and more sustainable supply chain.
Telefonica’s electronic equipment operations, which span more than 100 companies across three continents, benefit from VICKY’s ability to automate the logistics process. This automation provides complete traceability and helps suppliers achieve greater efficiency through digitization. The system optimizes procurement, avoids delays, and facilitates access to critical product information, such as manufacturing location and components, which are vital for maintenance and refurbishment.
“Much of the innovation we will see in the near future will focus on process transformation, where new technologies such as blockchain, big data, and the Internet of Things will be key factors in contributing to the decarbonization of operations while generating environmental benefits,” says Fernando Valero, Global Director of Supply Chain and Procurement Transformation at Telefonica.
