The Basics of Cell Phone Recycling

The usage of cell phones has increased astronomically since they were first made available to the public in 1984. According to a study by Strategy Analytics, 1.1 billion cell phones were sold in 2007. With a current world population of about 6.8 billion, that puts a cell phone in one of every six people’s pockets. That’s a lot of communication (and pockets)! More so, that’s a lot of potential trash.

In a landfill, cell phones can pollute the surrounding soil and water with toxic materials such as arsenic, lead and zinc. When recycled, some cell phones are broken down into their raw materials. Others are refurbished and sent to other countries for purchase in consumer markets.

If you’re looking to retire your old cell, there are many environmentally friendly options available:

Recycle it!

Make an event out of it. Throw a “Recycle that Ringer” party. No admission without an old cell phone to throw into the pile. Once collected, find a recycling location using Earth911.

Donate it!

This option has become more popular. There are many nonprofits using this tool for fundraising. There are also organizations such as zoos and schools that collect cell phones raise some needed capital. Explore your local options, and turn your trash into cash – for a good cause.

Return it!

Take it to the store where you purchased it, or send it to the company that produced it if it has a recycling program in place. Most cell phone companies provide this option.

Reuse it!

Pass down your old cell phones to your kids, family members or friends. Old to you is new to someone else! It saves money and helps avoid the trap of buying a new cell phone every year.