The challenge and what we wanted to achieve 

When MTN launched its bioSIM initiative, Patrick Afari, General Manager for Supply Chain Management and General Services at MTN Ghana, immediately recognised that the innovation would be a strong fit for the Ghanaian market. With millions of SIM cards circulating each year, the opportunity to replace traditional plastic cards with biodegradable, FSC-certified paper-based versions aligned with MTN Ghana’s ambitions to reduce waste, support responsible consumption and adopt more sustainable materials across its operations. “The move from traditional plastic SIM card holders to biodegradable ones was a pivotal statement in our strive towards doing more for the Planet,” Afari reflected.  

Firstly, the move aimed to reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastics and petrochemical-based materials and replace these with paper-based biodegradable SIMs that support sustainable materials management, waste reduction and circular-economy practices. This sought to promote environmentally responsible design and manufacturing. The shift to biodegradable materials would also help reduce carbon emissions associated with plastic production, processing and disposal. It would encourage climate-friendly innovation within our telecom sector by cutting down on landfill waste and incineration of plastic. Finally, by reducing plastic waste directly, MTN Ghana would help protect terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity from plastic pollution. Since biodegradable materials decompose naturally, there would be associated minimised harm to soil and wildlife habitats. 

What we did 

The transition supported MTN’s broader strategy to minimise its environmental footprint while contributing to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 9 (Innovation and Infrastructure). The goal was clear: offer a more sustainable SIM card without disrupting customer experience or operational efficiency. 

Outcomes and impact 

Between Q4 2024 and Q3 2025, MTN Ghana undertook a coordinated, cross-functional programme to transition from plastic to biodegradable SIM cards. Afari led the initiative within the corporate services and supply chain portfolio, working closely with teams across IT, Marketing, Sales and Distribution and Sustainability & Shared Value. 

The transition began with identifying vendors from MTN Group’s approved supplier base capable of producing biodegradable SIM cards to the required technical and environmental standards. A formal procurement process ensured competitive pricing and opportunities for local partnerships. Vendor samples underwent a rigorous quality assurance process, including network compatibility testing and durability checks managed by the IT team. 

Marketing developed updated artwork for the new SIM format, while Sales and Distribution aligned inventory planning to phase out existing stock without interrupting supply. Once specifications were approved, the Supply Chain team placed orders, monitored delivery timelines and coordinated distribution into the market to ensure a seamless transition for customers. 

The initiative delivered clear environmental benefits. By replacing plastic SIM cards with biodegradable alternatives, MTN Ghana reduced approximately 22 tonnes of plastic annually, the equivalent of 16 cubic metres of waste avoided across the value chain. 

The project also strengthened internal alignment around sustainability. Teams saw firsthand how product design, procurement and distribution choices could reduce environmental impact, sparking discussions on eliminating plastics in other operational areas. Externally, the transition reinforced MTN Ghana’s position as a responsible industry leader committed to climate action and responsible product innovation. 

Lessons learnt 

A few lessons were learnt along the way, says Afari.  

Lesson 1: Sustainability requires systemic thinking 

Switching materials required rethinking the entire supply chain, showing the importance of embedding sustainability early so all partners understand and support shared environmental goals. 

Lesson 2: Innovation comes with operational challenges 

Biodegradable materials needed rigorous testing for durability, moisture resistance and compatibility, confirming that continuous innovation and supplier collaboration are essential. 

Lesson 3: Environmental gains need a measurable impact 

Clear metrics are needed to track real benefits such as reduced carbon footprint, recyclability and waste diversion, ensuring that progress is evidence-based. 

Lesson 4: Communication builds brand value 

Stakeholders responded positively when the environmental benefits were clearly explained, reinforcing the value of purposeful communication in driving trust and engagement. 

Lesson 5: Small steps inspire broader transformation 

Although a SIM card is a small product, this shift sparked broader conversations about reducing plastics in packaging, marketing materials and accessories, becoming a blueprint for wider change. 

Lesson 6: Avoid the temptation of overstating impact 

To maintain credibility and avoid greenwashing, impacts must be communicated accurately — for example, explaining that replacing 10 million SIM cards avoids about 5,000 kg of material entering the environment.