Big Questions

We have reached a crucial point in history when it comes to climate change and moving towards a green future. The subject of decarbonisation touches all of us, businesses must look for low-carbon solutions, governments need to continue to work towards net zero targets and as individuals, we need to think about the way we travel and behave. The focus of this episode will be centred around the role of government and the private sector in enabling the transition to a low-carbon economy. Catherine Galano, Associate Director of Frontier’s Energy team and Matt Shepherd, Manager of Frontier’s transport and water team, spend a lot of their time helping organisations in the private and public sphere make the transition to net zero. Journalist, Tom Idle, will be asking Catherine and Matt a number of Big Questions relating to the decarbonisation agenda. 

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is one of the most significant European regulations in recent years, and it aims to ensure fair and open digital markets. The DMA targets large companies that provide core platform services and in effect, establishes a list of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ for these large companies. So, what issues could arise as the DMA is being implemented? What will the response be like and how will people behave? How can you protect the customer experience? These are just a few of the Big Questions touched upon in this episode. Journalist, Tom Idle, will be exploring this topic with Frontier Director, George Houpis, who works across the telco space and Associate Director, Malcolm Tan, who focuses on competition issues. 

The environmental footprint attached to data we store is something that cannot be ignored, with the Information Communication and Technology sector responsible for up to 3.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.Big businesses are pledging to meet 2030 targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions. However, exponential growth in the use of data means that investing in renewables may not be enough to keep up with demand. What do governments and businesses need to be thinking about to ensure the environmental impact of digital technologies and storing data does not escalate to the point that data becomes the new diesel?Sarah Snelson, director in Frontier’s public policy practice and Christian Strobel, manager in Frontier’s  telecoms practice unearth what is next for digital markets and data, with the help of journalist, Tom Idle. 

We are facing some of our biggest sustainability challenges yet. Carbon reduction commitments have been set, governments have put in place national targets and policymakers are ready and waiting to make crucial interventions. Where does competition law fit into all of this? When it comes to solving issues surrounding the climate crisis, collaboration is a term used frequently but does collaboration create an anti-competitive environment that puts consumers at risk? David Foster, Director in Frontier’s competition practice and Claire Thornhill, Associate Director in Frontier’s energy practice are used to finding solutions to unlock a greener future. Journalist, Tom Idle, speaks to David and Claire to gather some of their thoughts and insights on the big questions relating to the role of competition in a sustainable future.