Wolfgang Wessel – Stephan Schwenk

The Deutsche Telekom AG Group was honored with the Golden Planet Award 2024 for its diverse implementation of the topic of sustainability in practice. Its active support in the area of climate protection, finding ecological, economic and social solutions, as well as campaigns such as “Against Hate on the Net” or “ShareWithCare”.

The award was received by Mr. Wolfgang Wessel, IT Manager at Deutsche Telekom, on behalf of Ms. Kubin-Hardewig, Vice President Group Corporate Responsibility, Deutsche Telekom AG.

In keeping with Telekom’s slogan: “Experience what connects”, Telekom is a role model for the implementation of sustainability in corporate practice.

The Golden Planet Award for sustainability in practice is a joint initiative of the successful cooperation between the Voice Aid Association and D.I.P.E.S.H., represented by Senator Astrid Arens, and the Radio Group, represented by Stephan Schwenk.

This prestigious international sustainability award stands for exemplary implementation of sustainability in companies. Social Heroes are also recognized for their passion and commitment to society.

On November 2, 2024, individuals and companies from the USA, Africa, Italy, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica and Germany were honored in Frankfurt.

Interview with Ms. Melanie Kubin-Hardewig:

Deutsche Telekom attracted the attention of the Golden Planet Award 2024 jury with its innovative sustainability strategy and clear focus on social responsibility. In an interview, Melanie Kubin-Hardewig, Vice President Group Corporate Responsibility, emphasized the importance of sustainable action for the company and society.

“Living responsibility” as a guiding principle

“Sustainability and social responsibility have been firmly anchored in our corporate activities for over two decades,” explained Kubin-Hardewig. The corporate strategy “Acting responsibly, enabling sustainability” focuses on four key areas:

• Climate-neutral business: Telekom plans to become climate-neutral by 2040 by reducing at least 90 percent of its emissions and offsetting a maximum of 10 percent.
• Circularity: The aim is to make the entire value chain almost completely circular by 2030.
• Diversity and equal opportunities: The promotion of diversity and a safe, supportive environment for all employees are paramount.
• Digital society: Deutsche Telekom wants to make the digital world a tolerant and secure space in order to overcome the digital divide.

Sustainability as a success factor

“Without ESG – i.e. commitment to the environment, social issues and good corporate governance – there will be no profitability in the medium term,” Kubin-Hardewig made clear. She emphasized that sustainability not only brings challenges such as increasing transparency requirements, but also opportunities such as new markets and potential savings. According to her, responsible companies show more resilience, especially in times of crisis.

Holistic integration of sustainability

Sustainability is a top priority at Telekom: The Board of Management is responsible for the strategic guidelines and goals that are implemented by all business areas. The corporate culture is continuously being developed. “Our Group-wide goals are driven forward through joint structures for cooperation, progress measurement and target achievement,” says Kubin-Hardewig. Employee communities help to actively shape sustainability projects.

Impulses for other companies

Melanie Kubin-Hardewig emphasized that sustainability is not only crucial for large corporations, but also for small and medium-sized companies: “Sustainability is a game that we can only win if everyone plays along.” Her tip for getting started: “Take stock, identify tangible issues and simply get started.”

With its clear vision and commitment, Deutsche Telekom is sending a strong signal for the future and demonstrating that economic success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.