Batelco, a telecommunications company under the Beyon Group, has introduced SIM cards made entirely from recycled plastic, making it the first operator in Bahrain to adopt this environmentally focused initiative.
The new Eco-SIM cards are produced using 100% recycled polystyrene, primarily sourced from discarded refrigerators and other household appliances. The move aligns with the company’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact and contributes to Beyon Group’s broader sustainability objectives.
All new physical SIM cards issued by Batelco will now be Eco-SIMs. According to the company, these cards can also be recycled at the end of their lifecycle, enabling reuse in the production of new SIM cards. This closed-loop process aims to reduce dependence on virgin plastic and help cut carbon dioxide emissions.
Batelco stated that the introduction of Eco-SIMs forms part of a circular economy model, designed to reduce plastic waste while maintaining service continuity for customers who rely on physical SIM cards.
General Manager Aseel Mattar said, “We are delighted to introduce Bahrain’s first Eco-SIM cards in support of Beyon’s drive to embed sustainability across its companies. While we continue to expand eSIM services for the growing number of compatible devices available on the market, the majority of mobile customers still require physical SIM cards. The Eco-SIM launch is therefore a key step in Batelco’s broader sustainability journey, complementing initiatives already underway across Beyon. It underscores our proactive role in addressing environmental challenges and driving innovative solutions for a greener future.”
The initiative complements existing digital offerings such as eSIM services, but targets the current demand for physical SIM cards, which remains high in the region.
With this step, Batelco is contributing to national environmental protection efforts and advancing sustainability practices in the telecom sector.