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MTN Nigeria has taken a pioneering step in West Africa by launching the region’s first eco-friendly SIM cards. The new paper-based, biodegradable SIM cards mark a significant shift from traditional plastic SIMs and align with MTN’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sustainability goals.
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A Sustainable Alternative to Plastic SIMs
In a bold move to promote environmental responsibility, MTN Nigeria has become the first telecom company in the country to introduce paper-based SIM cards that are fully biodegradable. The eco-friendly SIMs are set to replace conventional plastic cards, which are not biodegradable and contribute to plastic waste.
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Tobe Okigbo, announced that MTN would gradually phase out plastic SIM cards, starting with immediate distribution of the biodegradable cards for all SIM replacements, upgrades, and swaps. “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 as well as the daily lives of the people,” Okigbo stated.
Part of a Broader Sustainability Strategy
The launch of the eco-SIM cards is a key component of MTN’s Project Zero, a decarbonization strategy aimed at reducing the company’s carbon footprint. Project Zero includes a focus on renewable energy solutions and sustainable practices across MTN’s operations, supporting a circular economy through waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
MTN is not limiting its sustainability efforts to SIM cards alone. “This is not just a standalone project,” said Adisa, General Manager at MTN Nigeria. “We are embedding this approach into our operations, from SIM cards to routers and other devices. And when these SIM cards reach the end of their lifecycle, they are biodegradable, unlike traditional plastic SIMs.”
Addressing a Global Plastic Crisis
The shift to biodegradable SIM cards comes amid a global plastic waste crisis. According to the United Nations, approximately 300 million tons of plastic waste is generated worldwide each year, with less than 10% being recycled. Oluwole Dada, General Manager at Secure ID Limited, praised MTN’s initiative as a much-needed step in tackling plastic waste within the telecommunications sector. “MTN’s move is a significant step in addressing this crisis, especially within the telecommunications sector,” Dada noted.
Encouraging Subscribers to Make the Switch
MTN Nigeria is encouraging its subscribers to join the movement toward a more sustainable future by switching to the new eco-SIM cards. The company believes that by replacing one SIM card at a time, it can make a meaningful impact on reducing the telecom industry’s environmental footprint.
The eco-friendly SIM cards are now available, underscoring MTN’s leadership in driving sustainability efforts across Nigeria and beyond. This initiative positions the company at the forefront of environmental stewardship within the telecom industry, setting an example for other businesses to follow in promoting sustainability.
Leading the Way to a Greener Future
MTN Nigeria’s launch of biodegradable SIM cards marks a significant milestone in reducing the environmental impact of telecommunications. By integrating sustainability into its operations and supporting local vendors, the company is helping to achieve Nigeria’s broader environmental goals.
