Does China have a 5G network?

Given that China currently has the largest 5G network in the world (∼1.53 million base stations by the end of 2021, Table S1) and that base station number was projected by up to 6–8 million by 2030 (CCID Consulting, 2020), concerns are being expressed regarding 5G mobile networks' environmental effects and sustainability.

How much CO2 will China's 5G network produce?

Under the model predicted 5G base stations, China's 5G network could yield 0.15–0.29 GtCO2 /yr emissions subject to the nation's BDDL from 40 to 80 % by 2030. Both 5G base stations and CO 2 emissions are significantly lower than the previous estimates.

How much carbon does 5G emit in China in 2021?

The results indicate that, due to the high carbon emissions resulting from the new infrastructure, the carbon emissions of 5G base stations in China in 2021 amounted to 49.2 MtCO 2 eq.

How many 5G base stations are built in China?

As 5G serves as the foundation for the construction of new infrastructure, China, as the world leader in 5G base station construction, has already built over 1.4 million 5G base stations in 2021 alone. In the same year, 5G base stations in China produced approximately 49.2 million tons of CO 2 eq.

Are 5G base stations sustainable?

However, due to their high radio frequency and limited coverage, the construction and operation of 5G base stations can lead to significant energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. To address this challenge, scholars have focused on developing sustainable 5G base stations.

What is the energy consumption of 5G communication base stations?

Overall, 5G communication base stations’ energy consumption comprises static and dynamic power consumption . Among them, static power consumption pertains to the reduction in energy required in 5G communication base stations that remains constant regardless of service load or output transmission power.