The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has recently entered into a five-year contract with BT to utilize its EE mobile network for real-time data collection. This agreement includes the provision of 34,000 mobile connections, which will enhance operational capabilities for DEFRA personnel and facilitate the connection of various essential environmental monitoring devices. Key tools, such as advanced sensors for water quality monitoring and specialized payment machines, will be supported by this mobile network.
EE’s robust network infrastructure is crucial for the timely and reliable transmission of essential information. This upgraded connectivity enables DEFRA to monitor critical situations, including extreme weather events, flood risks, and the spread of agricultural diseases, while ensuring effective management of water quality data. The immediate access to this data allows for faster and more informed reactions to environmental challenges.
Within this expansive framework, several key organizations affiliated with DEFRA will also benefit from these enhanced capabilities. Notable beneficiaries include the Environment Agency, the Animal, Plant & Health Agency, and Natural England, among others. According to Andy Rowe, Director of Central Government at BT, the partnership underscores the company’s commitment to supporting DEFRA’s mission of restoring and enhancing the environment for future generations by ensuring reliable network coverage for its workers, particularly during crises.
A significant aspect of this collaboration involves DEFRA leveraging the Shared Rural Network initiative, which aims to improve mobile coverage in rural areas. As much of DEFRA’s work takes place in remote locations, maintaining connectivity for both field and office staff is vital. Additionally, the contract aligns with DEFRA’s environmental sustainability goals, offering tools to help manage its carbon footprint.
Through access to eSIMs and BT’s Carbon Dashboard, DEFRA can monitor electricity usage and carbon emissions, ultimately facilitating efforts to minimize energy waste. This partnership exemplifies the importance of mobile connectivity for organizations, especially those with field-based operations. Furthermore, BT’s extensive network supports essential communication for many public services, adding DEFRA to its portfolio of public bodies reliant on this infrastructure for effective functioning.