The second SUSTAIN-6G Plenary Meeting, held from 1st to 4th of April 2025 at the Siemens office in Munich, brought together industry experts, researchers, and partners to discuss the future of 6G technology and its role in sustainability.

Over the course of three dynamic days, participants engaged in insightful discussions, collaborative workshops, and strategic planning sessions aimed at driving forward the next generation of connectivity.

Day 1: Setting the Stage for 6G Innovation

The first day of the meeting laid a strong foundation for discussions on 6G technology enablers and sustainability imperatives. Participants explored key research initiatives, early-stage use cases, and the necessary technological advancements to support a sustainable and efficient 6G network.

The full-day sessions focused on bridging theoretical research with practical applications, ensuring that sustainability remains a core component of 6G development.

Day 2: A Deep Dive into 6G and Sustainability

Day 2 was marked by in-depth discussions and interactive sessions aimed at refining 6G use cases and aligning them with sustainability goals.

In the morning, a crucial handover session provided insights into 6G technology enablers, real-world applications, and sustainability needs followed by a matchmaking discussion linked vertical use cases with ICT technological requirements, fostering stronger connections between research and implementation.

The afternoon focused on identifying gaps in vertical use cases and integrating sustainability-driven insights. An interactive mind-mapping exercise was organised to align R&I enablers with three core verticals: Smart Grid, Agriculture, and eHealth. This led to three individual dynamic sessions in different rooms.

The engagement and expertise of all participants contributed to a highly productive day, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable and innovative 6G development.

Day 3: Strategic Alignment and Next Steps

The final day of the plenary meeting focused on strategic discussions and the alignment of goals across various work packages.

The strategies around dissemination, communications, exploitation, and standardization to ensure the project’s visibility and impact were discussed.
Then, it was followed by a General Assembly, which provided key updates and alignment across all work packages, fostering a unified approach to 6G innovation.

The afternoon was focused on defining testbed metrics, Proof of Concept (PoC) updates, and deliverables for the next phases of the project. And later on, examined “slow ramp-up” strategies, goal-setting, and interworking plans to ensure a structured and efficient progression of the initiative.

At the end of the day, a short time was dedicated to reflect on the progress made during the meeting and outlining actionable next steps for continued collaboration and development.

Beyond the Sessions: Strengthening Collaboration

In addition to the technical discussions, participants had the opportunity to connect informally during a memorable social dinner on Day 2. The evening featured traditional Bavarian cuisine and provided a relaxed atmosphere for strengthening professional relationships. The hospitality of Siemens in Munich played a key role in making this event a success.

Looking Ahead

With clearly defined next steps, strengthened collaborations, and renewed momentum, the SUSTAIN-6G team is well-prepared for the next phase of the project. The insights gained from this plenary meeting will drive forward innovative solutions that align 6G development with sustainability goals.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants, partners, and organizers who contributed to this impactful event. Together, we continue to push the boundaries of 6G innovation for a more connected and sustainable future.