Beyond sand, fiber optic production depends on energy-intensive processes to transform raw silica, metals, and petrochemicals into specialized glass cables. Globally, these greenhouse gas emissions approach 49 million tonnes per year – similar to seven average-sized coal power. Optical fiber networks form the backbone of our global communications infrastructure, carrying nearly 100% of transoceanic data traffic. As more cables stretch across seas and land to meet surging bandwidth demands, we must balance connectivity with conservation. Yet the environmental story does not end at installation: the full lifecycle—from raw material extraction and glass manufacturing to packaging. Over its entire life cycle, a fiber optic cable will consume fewer resources and generate less waste. Fiber optic networks offer long-term environmental benefits but face higher initial impacts compared to copper. In this white paper, we examine the key impacts across each life cycle phase.
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