With the increase in environmental awareness, many people and businesses seek ways to reduce their impact on the planet. Most are turning to eco-friendly energy solutions, making it necessary for broadband providers and engineers to offer sustainable options.
Fibre optic cables revolutionised the cable world for their reliability, fast data speed, and high-security levels. With all these advantages, are optical fibre cables really a green choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint?
Continue reading to find out more about the sustainability of fibre optic cables, and the most eco-friendly solutions available from Altimex.
Are Fibre Optic Cables Sustainable?
Fibre optic cables require 70% less energy to transmit the same amount of data compared to regular copper wires. The energy efficiency of this cable type is better for the planet than copper alternatives.
Furthermore, the fact that fibre optic cables require less energy means they save businesses money over a long period.
Below are key points emphasising why you should consider sustainable fibre optic cables for your projects.
Easier on the planet
Fibre optic cables comprise silicon dioxide, a natural compound (silicon and oxygen). It is the principal constituent of sand.
The use of silicon dioxide in constructing optical fibre cables contributes to their sustainability, making them a more planet-friendly choice than other cable options.
Plus, fewer non-renewable resources are required to manufacture fibre optic cables.
Energy efficient
As mentioned, fibre optic cables are exceptionally energy efficient, surpassing copper cables in this respect. Many professionals have recognised that they are the most energy-efficient technology for broadband connections.
Fibre optics significantly reduce energy consumption by utilising less energy during data transmission, making them a sustainable choice for modern communication networks.
Additionally, fibre optic cables don’t require cooling systems like copper cables do, cutting back on further energy consumption.
Durable
Fibre optic cables can last up to 25 years, making them highly durable. They do not break or deteriorate as copper wire does.
Because of the durability of fibre optic cables, businesses don’t have to replace them as often as they do copper cables, which not only reduces waste but also costs.
Recyclable
For many years, cables, including fibre, couldn’t be recycled. They are hard to strip down and recycle because of the combination of materials involved in making them.
Although you still can’t take fibre optic cables to your average skip, there are specialist companies that you can contact who will dispose of your unwanted cables safely and sustainably.
What Makes A Fibre Optic Cable Sustainable?
The sustainability of a fibre optic cable stems from its primary component, which, as mentioned, is derived from sand.
Open-pit mining is the primary method of extracting copper, but this practice has significant environmental repercussions. Copper, a strategic mineral with low concentrations, necessitates larger mining volumes. Consequently, the environment suffers, disrupting natural landscapes and releasing hazardous chemicals into the air, surrounding land, and local water sources.
On the other hand, fibre production involves using glass, which is transformed into silicon dioxide, readily available in the earth’s crust. Silicon dioxide is abundant, making it easily accessible and obviating the need for deep mines like copper extraction. As a result, this minimises the emission of toxic fumes into the atmosphere.
Moreover, sand and gravel mining generally have limited environmental impacts, with temporary disturbances occurring only during active mining operations.
Which Fibre Optic Cables Are Sustainable?
Altimex offers a range of fibre optic solutions, some of which we have listed below. These products are more sustainable than their copper counterparts, making them an excellent choice for eco-friendly businesses.
1. Tight Buffered Fibre Cable
We have designed our tight buffered fibre cables for internal and external applications; their features include the following:
- Moisture and water-resistant outer jacket.
- Flame retardant.
- Low smoke zero halogen.
- Single-mode or multimode versions are available to suit various applications.
2. Universal Distribution Standard Loose Tube
If you require a cable for internal/external ducts and cable tray installations, our universal distribution standard loose tube is ideal; see its features below:
- Flame resistant.
- Single-mode or multimode versions are available to suit various applications.
- Designed to prevent water from entering.
3. OM1 Fibre Patchcord
OM1 fibre patchcords are ideal for LAN applications; such as connecting computers to a network.
- We thoroughly test all assemblies and supply them with the test results.
- The most common connector types, configurations and lengths are available from our stock.
- Non-stocked configurations (length, colour, connectors and cable type) can be manufactured to meet specific requirements.
4. OM2 50/125 LC-SC Duplex Patchcord
OM2 50/125 LC-SC duplex patchcord are a sustainable choice for short-distance applications.
- We thoroughly test all assemblies and supply them with the test results.
- The most common connector types, configurations and lengths are available from our stock.
- Non-stocked configurations (length, colour, connectors and cable type) can be manufactured to meet specific requirements.
5. Universal Standard Loose Tube Cable up to 288 Fibres
We have designed our universal standard loose tube cable specifically for internal and external applications; some of its benefits are as follows:
- Quick and easy to install.
- Flame retardant.
- Low smoke zero halogen.
- Single-mode or multimode versions are available to suit various applications.
For any future applications, such as installing broadband for a data centre, consider fire optic cables to ensure you’re promoting sustainable solutions and helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint.
If you are looking for eco-friendly fibre optic cables, contact us today. Altimex has been running for nearly 30 years, providing fibre optic services, electronics manufacturing, and lighting solutions.
