MTN South Africa is leading the charge in sustainable telecom solutions with the introduction of biodegradable SIM cards, marking a bold step towards reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.
Addressing the Waste Crisis
South Africa’s telecom industry produces around 180 million SIM cards annually — an astonishing figure, considering the population is just over 60 million. This surplus is largely driven by prepaid users frequently switching networks for better deals, leaving behind a trail of discarded plastic SIM cards.
MTN’s solution is a game-changer. The new SIM cards are made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified materials, ensuring they are sourced from responsibly managed forests. Unlike traditional plastic SIMs, which can persist in the environment for decades, these cards decompose within 3–6 months in landfills, soil, or water. Despite their eco-friendly design, they retain the same functionality, offering seamless connectivity, speed, and security.
Wanda Matandela, MTN’s Chief Commercial Operations Officer, confirmed that the company will begin distributing these biodegradable SIMs nationwide in December.
Challenges in the Telecom Industry
Other telecom operators, including Telkom, Vodacom, and Cell C, have taken steps to reduce plastic waste by offering smaller SIM cards or using biodegradable packaging. However, the challenge persists, particularly in informal markets where frequent SIM switching drives significant waste.
E-waste remains a growing concern in the industry. Evolving technologies like eSIMs — digital SIM cards embedded directly into devices — could provide a more sustainable alternative. However, adoption has been slow, hindered by limited device compatibility. Telecom companies are working to raise awareness about recycling options and the environmental benefits of eSIMs, hoping to encourage a shift.
Looking Ahead
While the move towards biodegradable SIM cards is a promising start, it’s clear that the telecom industry has more work to do in addressing its environmental impact. Evolving towards eSIMs could be the ultimate solution, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards altogether.
