Recycling Electronics May Be Solution to Hunger, Improper Nutrition
by Amanda Wills
Published on December 28th, 2009
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We saw Samsung’s huge roll out of its new bioplastic phone. And we remember its big media push behind its solar-powered devices. But this is a concept that may actually have more than monetary value for the electronics giant.
The company is extending a free electronics recycling program to ten K-12 schools in the San Francisco Unified School District in an effort to draw attention and promote education around the ever-growing subject of e-cycling.
Every year, upgrades or damage make an estimated 100 million cell phones obsolete. Photo: Flickr/JonJon2k8
But the program is two-fold. Funds raised through the e-waste recycling programs will be given to schools’ Free and Reduced Lunch program, which feeds more than half of the district’s 56,000 students. The program will also fund healthier school lunch menu options, such as salad bars.
“This generous program comes at a time when school district budgets throughout the state are under enormous pressure and we are extremely grateful that Samsung and Sims Recycling Solutions seeks to support public education during this time of need while educating students on the benefits of electronics recycling,” said Carlos A. Garcia, superintendant for San Francisco Unified School District, as reported by Treehugger.
The average American cell phone user owns three or more cellular phones. Up to 75 percent of obsolete phones are stockpiled in drawers, including the battery and the charger. Recycling these devices is paramount as cell phone coatings are often made of lead, and their lithium-ion batteries can explode if exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight, which are common conditions in landfills.
