At FutureNet MENA 2025, HCT Group CEO Salah Ali Shahsavari joined senior leaders from du, MTN Group, and GSM Systems on the main stage to spotlight how circular practices in network infrastructure can significantly reduce carbon emissions, lower capital expenditures, and fast-track coverage expansion across the Middle East. The full panel recap is available on Telecom Review.
What we shared on stage
| Challenge | HCT answer | Impact for operators |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Scope 3 emissions (75 % of the industry’s carbon footprint) | Dubai Circular Operations Hub – component-level testing, refurbishment and certified redeployment | Up to 30 % lifetime capex reduction and immediate embodied-carbon cuts HCT Group |
| Vendor lock-in | Vendor-agnostic reuse guidelines plus a regional equipment-exchange marketplace (“Telecom eBay”) | Shorter lead-times, interoperable spares and lower total cost of ownership |
| Data gaps around inventory and part compatibility | AI-driven inventory intelligence that predicts lifespan, matches parts across OEMs and flags refurbish vs. retire decisions in real time | Faster roll-outs, fewer truck rolls and measurable CO₂ savings |
Why it matters
- Global analysis pegs the circular-telecom prize at USD 45–80 billion in value creation by 2030.
- Early adopters such as MTN have already avoided 17 kt CO₂ and saved USD 6 million since 2018 by extending equipment life.
- With 2.6 billion people still offline, every reused radio or router accelerates affordable coverage in hard-to-reach markets.
“Circularity isn’t a sustainability add-on; it’s the fastest route to universal, low-carbon connectivity.”
— Salah Ali Shahsavari, CEO, HCT Group
Next steps from HCT
- Network Zero Initiative – expanding AI lifecycle tools across RAN, transport and core domains.
- Marketplace pilot – opening a trusted, standards-based portal where regional operators can buy or trade certified, high-grade refurbished gear.
- Transparent metrics – publishing quarterly reuse and emissions-avoidance dashboards to help customers hit science-based targets and avoid green-washing claims.
Committed to a Greener, Smarter Telecom Future
At HCT Group, we believe circularity is not a trend but a transformation — one that blends innovation with impact. As the industry shifts from intention to action, we remain committed to enabling telecom operators across the region to meet their sustainability goals through smart reuse, AI-driven tools, and ecosystem collaboration.
If you're ready to join the circular telecom movement, connect with our team and discover how HCT Group can help you accelerate your Net Zero journey.