MTN introduces recyclable SIM cards to promote sustainability in Nigeria

• MTN Nigeria has launched biodegradable, eco-friendly paper-based SIM cards 
• The paper-based SIMs are 100% biodegradable, recyclable, and reduce waste pollution
• The launch follows the NCC’s announcement of plans to update corporate governance codes

Technology company MTN Nigeria, on October 18, announced the introduction of paper-based, biodegradable, eco-friendly SIM cards in line with its Project Zero goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieve net zero emissions by 2040.

According to the company, the biodegradable paper-based SIM card is safer for the environment, as it supports the management of products throughout their lifecycle in a manner that promotes circularity and reduces waste.

This comes barely a week after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced plans to issue a revised corporate governance code, updating the last code from 2016 with a critical focus on introducing mandatory sustainability reporting for telecom operators.

Benefits of MTN’s paper-based SIM 

In a statement, MTN noted that the gradual elimination of plastic-based SIM cards would help the company make a considerable contribution to plastic pollution prevention, showing its commitment to continuously exploring ways to integrate sustainable practices into its operations.

Comparing the benefits of the 100% biodegradable paper-based SIM cards to the Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) plastic-based material, these eco-friendly SIMs can biodegrade naturally and are recyclable, thus reducing waste pollution. It also lowers carbon emissions footprint during production and disposal.

This helps eradicate the material problems of plastic SIM cards, such as landfill or incineration disposal, limited recycling options and contribution to waste pollution.

MTN said this move aligns with its promise to ‘Doing for the Planet’, prioritising eco-responsibility and minimising the company’s environmental footprint through responsible and sustainable waste management practices.

“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”, said Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer.

During the launch event, Adekemi Adisa, the General Manager of Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN, emphasised the role of people and their environment in driving the company’s innovative strategies. 

She stated, “Our people and the environment where they live drive 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.”

This initiative is expected to inspire other corporations to follow suit as the demand for sustainable solutions continues to rise globally. For MTN, it marks another step in their journey towards Nigeria's greener, more sustainable future.

NCC wants to sanction Starlink for hiking subscription price without getting approval

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) announced plans to sanction Starlink for unauthorised subscription price hikes, raising concerns about regulatory compliance. The decision follows numerous complaints from subscribers who experienced unexpected increases in their monthly fees, prompting the NCC's investigation. 

The NCC emphasised its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory transparency, signalling potential impacts on Starlink's operations in Nigeria.