MTN Nigeria, the country’s leading telecom giant, has unveiled paper-based, biodegradable SIM cards. This eco-friendly initiative, which was announced on Friday, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to reducing its carbon footprint and tackling plastic pollution.
The new SIM cards, made from 100% Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic-based cards. Unlike their plastic counterparts, which often end up in landfills or oceans, these innovative “bioSIMs” naturally decompose over time, minimizing environmental impact.
As part of a pilot program, the eco-friendly SIMs are now available in select MTN stores across Lagos and Abuja. This rollout follows MTN’s Project Zero initiative, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
Tobe Okigbo, MTN’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
“Our new eco-friendly SIM cards represent part of our continuous commitment to environmental responsibility, as well as our dedication to reducing waste, supporting local Nigerian vendors, and integrating sustainability into business operations and the daily lives of the people,” he said.
The introduction of biodegradable SIMs comes on the heels of the Nigerian Communications Commission’s announcement to revise its corporate governance code, focusing on mandatory sustainability reporting for telecom operators.
General Manager, Sustainability and Shared Value, Adekemi Adisa also added:
“Our people and the environment where they live drives the innovative measures we take. The launch of our recyclable SIM cards embodies our commitment to sustainability, encouraging our customers to make eco-friendly choices, reducing waste and paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future for Nigerians.”
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MTN’s initiative not only addresses environmental concerns but also supports local economic growth. The company has partnered with a Nigerian supplier to produce these innovative SIM cards, reinforcing its commitment to empowering local businesses.
As mobile operators worldwide seek ways to reduce their environmental impact, MTN Nigeria’s move sets a new standard in the African telecom industry. This eco-friendly approach encourages customers to make environmentally conscious choices, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the rapidly evolving world of mobile communications.