International mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile Middle East & Africa and long-term partner, Workz Group today reported that they are together on course to achieve a 100% reduction in one-time-use plastic across Virgin Mobile MEA’s SIM and recharge products by early next year.
According to data from the World Bank, carbon emissions in the Middle East are amongst the highest on the planet standing at an average of 9 metric tons per capita. Virgin MEA, in alignment with Virgin Enterprise’s global commitment to sustainability, has been lowering its CO2 levels in the region with the help of local partner Workz Group. This has been achieved through various sustainable initiatives such as modifying product design by reducing the size of the plastic SIM card, utilising recycled materials, and optimising all operations across the supply chain. These changes have led to a significant reduction in both companies’ carbon footprint and the elimination of over 50 tonnes of single-use plastic.
“At Virgin Mobile, we’re keen to be a sustainable company and do our part to eradicate single-use plastic and reduce our overall carbon footprint in the region. As our local partner, Workz has been helping us achieve that goal and we are proud to be on the verge of becoming 100% single-use plastic free across all of our operations in the Middle East.”
Erik Dudman Nielsen, Founder and Group CEO, Virgin Mobile MEA
“We relish the opportunity to contribute to Virgin’s environmental passion and it’s great to see what has already been achieved. What’s interesting is that being sustainable doesn’t have to cost more as we’ve seen in Virgin’s case with an 84% reduction in cost. As an ISO-certified company for environmental management, Workz is continually implementing new initiatives to promote sustainable business growth and decrease our carbon footprint and that of our partners.”
Tor Malmros, Chief Executive Officer, Workz Group