David Idle, CPO at Bigleaf Networks shares how the utilisation of 5G SA networks at the Paris Olympic Games has shown what is possible
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games mark a turning point for the future of digital infrastructure and sustainability as much as for the sports scene. The Games have demonstrated how 5G technology can perfectly achieve both high performance and environmental responsibility, therefore transforming the way we approach infrastructure projects and large-scale events.
The Olympic Games are, all things considered, a huge logistical effort requiring flawless connectivity for everything from public engagement to athlete tracking to broadcasting. Historically, this has meant an extensive reliance on technology with high energy consumption.
Paris 2024, on the other hand, dared to challenge convention by employing 5G as a major component of its sustainability strategy. Orange, the telecom company that has been appointed as the sole provider for 5G network services, set a bold target to cut carbon emissions to just 10,000 metric tons—a far cry from the 3.6 million metric tons emitted during the Rio de Janeiro games. The natural ecological sustainability of 5G systems—which use less power and demand less cooling than more recent systems—made this leap feasible and successful.
Sustainability achievements of Paris 2024
Obviously, the choice of picking Orange as the sole 5G provider paid off handsomely. The provider was able to maximise energy efficiency to previously unattainable levels by putting a private 5G network across all 120 official facilities. Through almost 250,000 miles of fibre-optic cable, this vast network supports 32 sports and links 12,000 screens, 8,000 Wi-Fi terminals, and 13,000 computer systems, therefore guaranteeing uninterrupted and high-quality transmission from stadiums and other locations. This went beyond mere faster speeds or greater capacity. This change was toward creating a progressively more sustainable network.
The figures speak for themselves: a remarkable 87% cut in power consumption, a 75% drop in cooling requirements, and almost 100 metric tons of CO2 emissions eliminated yearly. These numbers evidence 5G’s capacity to transform our perspective on and execution of digital infrastructure.
5G’s impact on fan engagement
From a product perspective, I consider the Paris 2024 5G network as a marvel of engineering. It’s the first large-scale implementation of a 5G Standalone (SA) network, which offers several key advantages over non-standalone (NSA) networks. SA networks are naturally more flexible, which allows for greater customisation and optimization. They also support features like network slicing, which enables multiple virtual networks to be created on a single physical infrastructure, further enhancing energy efficiency.
Moreover, the benefits of 5G extend far beyond energy savings. The network’s ultra-low latency and high bandwidth capabilities have unlocked a new era of fan engagement. Interactive experiences, real-time data, and immersive broadcasts are just a few of the then-possibilities that 5G was able to successfully bring before the eyes of the whole world. This innovation enhanced the spectator experience and opened up new avenues for revenue generation.
Future prospects: 5G and sustainability
Setting a new benchmark for sustainability, the Paris 2024 Olympics prove that clean technology can run even the most complicated and demanding events. As a CPO, the opportunities this presents for the future inspire me. We are laying the groundwork for a more linked, sustainable planet, not anymore stuck on building networks alone.
The Paris 2024 Olympics have shown the world the revolutionary capabilities of 5G in supporting environmental initiatives. Not only in the field of major events, but these principles will surely influence how we employ 5G to build a more environmentally responsible future across many sectors. Other industries are already starting to take notice, exploring how 5G may be used to lower energy consumption, streamline operations, and drive more innovation. The list of possibilities is limitless, and I continue to look forward to this technological revolution.
The 2024 Olympic Games have proven that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. It’s a model that I believe will be replicated and expanded upon in the years to come. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with 5G, tech companies will not only be able to deliver cutting-edge products and services but also contribute to a brighter and greener future.
Author: David Idle, CPO at Bigleaf Networks
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