Leading by Example: How Optus Is Empowering Suppliers on the Path to Net Zero

When it comes to reducing emissions, large companies have more than just a footprint, they have influence.

Optus, one of Australia's largest telecommunications providers, is setting the standard for how big business can take real responsibility for its supply chain emissions. With the help of Sumday's carbon accounting platform and expertise, Optus has transformed its approach to Scope 3, turning a regulatory requirement into a collaborative journey.

Watch the full case study here.

Why Scope 3 Matters

For Optus, reducing emissions in its own operations isn't enough. Like many corporates, the majority of its emissions lie upstream, in the suppliers that deliver goods, services, and infrastructure.

"Everyone in corporate Australia has a role to play in supporting small and medium companies as part of the decarbonisation journey," says JP, Senior Environmental Officer at Optus.

The Challenge: Supplier Readiness

Many small and medium businesses simply don't have the time, expertise, or resources to navigate the complexity of emissions reporting. Terms like Scope 1, 2, and 3 are unfamiliar. Data collection feels burdensome. And traditional engagement methods just don't scale.

The Solution: Empowerment Through Sumday

Optus partnered with Sumday to meet suppliers where they are. Through a structured program using Sumday's platform, suppliers were given access to simple training and content, support from real people, tools to report emissions confidently and accurately, and a shared space to store assumptions, estimates, and supporting data.

• 85% supplier engagement
• Increased understanding of supplier-level emissions
• Data that actually helps drive emissions reductions
• Stronger, more collaborative supplier relationships

Procurement with Purpose

This wasn't just an environmental play, it was a strategic procurement move. With clear expectations shared with vendor managers, Optus aligned suppliers from the start. Sustainability became part of delivery, not an afterthought.

Leading by Example

Optus and Sumday's work together shows what's possible when corporate ambition meets real support. It's not just about reducing emissions — it's about raising the bar for what leadership looks like.

If you're a large organisation asking for carbon data, ask yourself: Are you enabling your suppliers to succeed, or just passing the buck?