MTN Nigeria has introduced biodegradable, eco-friendly SIM cards, marking a significant step toward its Project Zero goals of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
These new paper-based SIM cards are designed to be more environmentally friendly, promoting sustainability throughout their lifecycle by reducing waste and supporting circularity.
This announcement comes just days after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) revealed plans to update its corporate governance code, focusing on mandatory sustainability reporting for telecom operators.
MTN’s shift away from plastic-based SIM cards highlights the company’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices and contributing to the fight against plastic pollution.
The paper-based SIMs, made entirely from biodegradable materials, offer key environmental benefits compared to the conventional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic SIMs.
These eco-friendly alternatives can naturally biodegrade and are fully recyclable, reducing both waste and the carbon footprint associated with their production and disposal.
Traditional plastic SIM cards, by contrast, often end up in landfills or incinerators, with limited recycling options and a significant contribution to global plastic waste pollution.
MTN’s statement emphasised that phasing out plastic SIM cards aligns with its environmental responsibility initiative, ‘Doing for the Planet.’
By prioritising eco-responsibility and sustainable waste management practices, the company aims to minimise its environmental footprint.
“Our eco-friendly SIM cards represent a key part of our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Tobe Okigbo, MTN’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer. “We are dedicated to reducing waste, supporting local Nigerian vendors, and integrating sustainability into our business operations and the daily lives of our customers.”
Adekemi Adisa, MTN’s General Manager of Sustainability and Shared Value, also commented on the initiative: “Our people and their environment drive our innovation.
The launch of these recyclable SIM cards demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and encourages our customers to make eco-friendly choices.”
Globally, mobile network operators are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their activities and are exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprint.
The introduction of biodegradable, paper-based SIM cards represents a shift toward more sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic SIMs, which are made from fossil fuel-derived materials.
These plastic SIMs contribute to the growing global plastic waste crisis, with millions of cards ending up in landfills and oceans, posing a threat to wildlife and ecosystems.
In contrast, the paper-based SIM cards, known as bioSIMs, are produced from 100% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper, ensuring that the forests supplying the material are responsibly managed.
Once discarded, bioSIMs safely decompose in the natural environment, reducing their impact on the planet.
