Explore the potential for collaboration between mobile network operators and plastics organisations

The mismanagement of plastic waste is a global challenge that must be urgently addressed if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or meet the targets set out in the 2015 Paris Agreement. Plastic pollution continues to be driven by increased plastic packaging in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Africa and Asia, where formal waste collection systems are often underdeveloped or non-existent.

However, promising circular economy solutions are emerging and there is growing interest in using digital technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of them. Digital technologies have an important role to play by improving citizen engagement in recycling, driving operational efficiencies and increasing transparency in the plastics supply chain.

In 2021, GSMA published the landscaping study “Digital Dividends in Plastics Recycling” exploring the specific benefits that plastics organisations could reap from using digital tools and services, or partnering with technology organisations. This report further explores mutually beneficial opportunities for plastic organisations (PSEs) and mobile network operators (MNOs). It illustrates the different advantages that such partnerships could offer both MNOs and PSEs across the “triple bottom line” of People, Planet and Profit.