DEFRA signs BT contract to use EE for real-time environment data

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has signed a contract with BT to use its EE mobile network for real-time data.

At the heart of the five-year contract is the provision of 34,000 mobile connections. These will not only support DEFRA personnel directly but also connect a diverse range of devices crucial for environmental oversight. This includes sophisticated sensors monitoring water quality and specialised payment machines used in various departmental functions.

The enhanced connectivity – powered by EE’s highly-regarded network infrastructure – is designed to facilitate the reliable, real-time transmission of vital data. This capability is crucial for monitoring developing situations such as extreme weather events, assessing flood risks, tracking the spread of agricultural diseases through crops or livestock, and managing water quality information. Immediate data access allows for quicker, more informed responses to increasing environmental challenges.

This expansive network will serve employees across the core department and its vital associated bodies. Key organisations benefiting include the Environment Agency, the Animal, Plant & Health Agency (APHA), Natural England, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), and The Rural Payment Agency (RPA).

Andy Rowe, Director of Central Government at BT, said: “It’s a privilege to welcome DEFRA to the EE network and to support their mission to restore and enhance the environment for the next generation. 

“Their workers perform critical work across the UK and it’s vital they are provided with reliable network coverage, especially in times of crisis.”

A crucial element of the agreement involves DEFRA benefiting from EE’s ongoing investment in the Shared Rural Network (SRN). This UK-wide initiative is targeted at improving 4G mobile coverage in geographically-challenging rural areas.

SRN access is vital for DEFRA, given that much of its crucial work occurs in remote locations, far from traditional office environments. This ensures that both field-based and office-based staff can operate effectively, regardless of location.

The contract also incorporates BT’s commitment to supporting DEFRA’s environmental sustainability and carbon reduction targets.

As part of the deal, DEFRA will gain access to practical tools designed to help manage its environmental footprint. This includes the capability to use eSIMs, which can reduce plastic waste associated with traditional SIM cards, and access to BT’s Carbon Dashboard.

The Carbon Dashboard offers detailed visibility into electricity consumption and associated carbon emissions, broken down to the level of individual workloads and applications, empowering DEFRA to identify and minimise energy waste and carbon-intensive activities.

“For organisations with large fleets and field workers, hybrid working is about more than just home and office space,” added Rowe. “Staying connected on the go is critical for DEFRA’s workers who rely on mobile connectivity to operate effectively and serve the wider public community daily or in emergency situations.”

BT’s fixed and mobile networks form the communication backbone for numerous vital public services including over 200 NHS trusts, 43 police forces, and 29 fire services. Furthermore, the company has managed the nation’s incoming 999 emergency calls continuously since 1937.

This new contract with DEFRA adds another significant public body reliant on BT’s network capabilities for essential operations.

(Image credit: BT)

See also: ETSI: Sensing capabilities of 6G networks will transform industries

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Tags: bt, connectivity, defra, environment, europe, government, internet of things, Iot, mobile, Networks, rural, uk