SUSTAINET

SUSTAINET is leading Europe towards a sustainable and technologically sovereign future by focusing on the resilience, energy efficiency, sustainability and security of high-performance end-to-end networks.

Europe is striving for a digital and sustainable future in the midst of global crises and geopolitical challenges. In view of Europe’s declining share of the global market for information and communication technologies (ICT), there is an urgent need for action to secure technological sovereignty in the region. The Celtic-Next flagship project SUSTAINET is dedicated to this complex task.

The seamless interconnection of digital systems, which is essential for future high-performance communication networks, requires research in ICT hardware and control software. The transition to a “digital society” is leading to an increased dependence on ICT to manage energy supply. This highlights the need for resilient and scalable network technologies coupled with support for new services such as cognitive and full context sensitivity.

Network resilience is critical, especially for critical infrastructures, and requires new approaches to ensure continuity of communications in the event of failures and disasters. Such networks require secure networks with robust cybersecurity measures in place to counter emerging threats.

Sustainability plays a crucial role on the path to a climate-neutral future. Telecommunications networks must not only prioritize connectivity, but also serve as platforms for a sustainable society. Among other things, operators have to adapt to the fluctuating availability of renewable energies and turn from consumer to prosumer on the energy market.

Joint research and development efforts are essential to achieve these goals and regain technological sovereignty. Government support and industry initiatives must work together to drive innovation in key technologies and promote industrial cooperation and joint research and development initiatives.