100,000 Devices Recycled in Saudi Arabia to Cut E-Waste

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has recycled over 100,000 electronic devices to mitigate environmental damage and promote a sustainable digital future. This initiative was part of a collaborative effort with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to develop e-waste management regulations in three countries.

Key aspects of the Kingdom's digital sustainability strategy include enhancing circular digital economy initiatives and developing regulations to reduce e-waste. The ‘Green Digital Action’ initiative was launched at COP28 with ITU and more than 40 partners to enhance digital initiatives. Saudi Arabia led efforts in the Digital Economy Track, showcasing government-industry collaboration for a renewable economy, and introduced tools to develop digital sustainability strategies, including a five-step framework for strategic digital sustainability.

Saudi Arabia's commitment extends to the green economy and climate change mitigation, emphasizing international best practice exchange. In 2021, the Kingdom spent USD 649 billion on supporting environmental, social, and corporate governance practices, marking a 227% increase from 2019. Prominent telecommunications and technology companies such as STC, Mobily, Zain, Jahez, and Solution by STC have issued sustainability reports, with STC, Mobily, and Zain being top-ranked in the Saudi communications and technology sector according to the MSCI ESG Index.

The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission aims to become one of the most advanced 5G digital regulatory bodies, supported by the Kingdom's comprehensive digital infrastructure and advanced regulatory framework, fostering innovations in environmental sustainability. The sector is dedicated to achieving the United Nations' sustainable development goals through regulatory practices.