Are eSIMs better for the environment?

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As the environmental challenges facing our planet continue to stack up, even our smallest tech choices matter. Enter eSIMs: the digital alternative to traditional plastic SIM cards. But what makes eSIMs a better choice environmentally? Read on to find out more.

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The environmental impact of traditional SIM cards

As outlined in the Trusted Connectivity Alliance’s (TCA) study on ‘Improving the Environmental Credentials of the SIM Industry’, the environmental impact of traditional SIM cards is significant.

From manufacturing to disposal, each stage contributes to both pollution and resource depletion. With 4.35 billion traditional SIM card shipments annually, around 20,000 tons of plastic waste are generated. Manufacturing processes alone contribute 80 percent of carbon emissions from mobile devices.

However, with the rise of eSIM-compatible phones, there’s a promising alternative on the horizon.

Enter the eSIM: A sustainable solution

Unlike their plastic counterparts, eSIMs are virtual SIM cards embedded directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical production, packaging, and distribution. This key difference translates to significant environmental benefits. These include:

Reduced plastic waste

eSIMs eliminate the need for plastic cards and packaging, drastically reducing plastic waste. With no physical SIM to discard, the environmental burden of millions of plastic cards ending up in landfills is alleviated. If you’re considering upgrading to an eSIM-compatible phone, check out our blog on the top 5 budget eSIM phones for a more sustainable choice.

Lower carbon emissions

By digitising the SIM card process, eSIM technology slashes the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transporting physical SIM cards. The energy savings and reduced emissions make eSIMs a more environmentally sustainable choice.

Convenient for travellers

eSIMs from easySim are perfect for travel, eliminating the need to buy another physical SIM card when you’re abroad. With an eSIM alongside your normal SIM card, you can seamlessly switch between carriers or add new plans with just a few taps on your device, making travel easier and more efficient.

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Simplified logistics

Unlike physical SIM cards, which require extensive logistics involving flights, factory production, and resource consumption throughout the supply chain, eSIMs eliminate the need for transportation of physical cards due to their digital nature.

What are the other benefits of eSIMs?

While the environmental advantages of eSIMs are clear, their benefits extend beyond sustainability.

Convenience. Switching carriers or adding new plans is effortless with just a few taps on your device, eliminating the need for physical cards.
Seamless roaming. We collaborate with global Tier 1 networks to provide the best coverage possible.
Cost-effective. Our eSIMs and local plans offer savings of up to 95 percent compared to purchasing temporary SIM cards. Additionally, our local plans deliver significant savings compared to roaming fees.
Space-efficient. You no longer need to carry multiple SIM cards; your device can store several eSIM profiles.• Enhanced security. In case of loss or theft, we can remotely disable and suspend your eSIM to protect your personal data.
Environmentally friendly eSIMs contribute to reducing plastic waste by eliminating the necessity for physical SIM cards.

Find out more about what an eSIM is and its other benefits here.

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