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The purpose of this study was to improve our understanding of the type and degree of environmental impact that communication systems can have. The work aimed to provide a reference point in terms of relevant environmental background material, data examples, analyses, and key source references. A second aim was to help understanding of the scale and type of impacts communication systems can have. The study was not intended to be a definitive impact assessment of UK communication systems, but was intended to inform on a range of relevant issues and provide insight into environmental impacts for communication systems relevant to the UK.

Ofcom's technical research programme enables us to keep up to date with technologies and trends, so that we can be in the best possible position to execute our regulatory duties. We do not conduct research in-house but make use of external resources, such as private commercial organisations, university departments and government funded research institutions. These reports present the findings of technical work conducted on Ofcoms behalf. The opinions and conclusions stated within these reports are those of the organisations who conducted the research and may not reflect the view of Ofcom or imply any future policy work in related areas. Ofcom is not responsible for the content or accuracy of these reports.

• Understanding the environmental impact of communications systems [pdf]
  Final Report
• Understanding the environmental impact of communications systems [pdf]
  Appendices

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