Helios assess carbon footprint of satellite and other communication technologies

Helios and Best Foot Forward (BFF) have begun a high profile study for the European Space Agency (ESA) to examine the ‘Comparative Carbon Footprint of Satellite and Alternative Communications Systems’.

The study will assess the carbon footprints of different electronic communication networks. In particular ESA wish to establish a definitive comparison between the equivalent carbon dioxide (CO2e) generated by systems which are predominantly satellite-based and those which are predominantly ground-based using delivery of live and on-demand video content as the case study, as this represents one of the major demands on such networks.

This study will seek to assess the relative CO2e emissions generated by watching video in the home comparing digital terrestrial, satellite, cable, video over internet protocol (VoIP – otherwise known as IPTV) and video over internet services (such as the BBC’s iPlayer). The project will consider both the producer (transmission) and consumer (reception) issues by developing CO2e models for the various networks as well as for set-top-boxes and similar reception devices. It will be completed within 6 months and will involve two stakeholder workshops involving senior representatives of the various network types as well as consumer and producer equipment manufacturers.

The results of the study will not only provide a methodology for the assessment of the carbon footprint of electronic communication networks, but will inform the debate on which is the greenest form of television viewing. Richard Womersley, Project Director for Helios says of the study, "If Europe is to meet its 2050 carbon targets, it is important to consider each and every way to achieve this. Ensuring that carbon is accounted for in decisions on future delivery of entertainment and communication to the home will contribute to the overall goals. This project will open the debate and help to ensure that the right decision is taken."

For more information on the study, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at Helios on +44 1252 451 651 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at ESA.

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