Batelco by Beyon becomes first in Bahrain to launch eco-SIM cards

BAHRAIN – Batelco, part of the Beyon Group, has become the first telecom operator in Bahrain to launch Eco-SIM cards made entirely from recycled plastic.

The move represents a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey and aligns with Beyon’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy.

Going forward, all new SIM cards issued by Batelco will be Eco-SIMs, with card bodies manufactured from recycled polystyrene sourced mainly from discarded refrigerators and household appliances.

Once they reach end-of-life, the SIMs themselves can be recycled to produce new cards, creating a circular economy model that reduces the need for virgin plastic and lowers carbon emissions.

“This initiative demonstrates our proactive role in addressing environmental challenges,” said Aseel Mattar, General Manager at Batelco.

“While we continue to expand eSIM services for the growing number of compatible devices available on the market, the majority of customers still rely on physical SIM cards.

“Eco-SIMs are therefore a critical step forward, complementing our other sustainability initiatives and supporting Bahrain’s wider environmental goals.”

A small card, big impact

Globally, more than 4.5 billion SIM cards are produced every year, according to GSMA estimates, consuming thousands of tons of plastic.

Though small in size, the environmental impact is significant due to the sheer volume of cards manufactured, distributed, and disposed of annually.

By shifting to Eco-SIMs, Batelco reduces demand for virgin plastic, prevents waste from entering landfills, and cuts emissions associated with traditional SIM card production.

Eco-SIMs also provide a practical bridge during the transition to eSIM technology, which eliminates physical cards altogether but is still limited by device compatibility.

In markets like Bahrain, where many customers continue to use traditional SIMs, the recycled version ensures immediate environmental benefits without disrupting customer access.

Batelco’s move places Bahrain at the forefront of sustainable telecom practices in the Middle East, joining a growing list of global operators introducing Eco-SIMs as part of their green transformation strategies.

Industry experts say such initiatives not only reduce environmental footprints but also help telecom brands build stronger consumer trust in an era where sustainability is increasingly valued.

With the Eco-SIM launch, Batelco is signaling that even small innovations in telecom infrastructure can deliver meaningful environmental impact while paving the way for a greener digital future.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE