Cell Phone Recycling Makes More Sense Than You Might Think

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Cell phone technology is progressing at a rapid rate and consumers are striving to keep up with the latest developments.

This means that many old and unwanted models are being discarded, often without any real concern for what happens to them.

Governments, environmental organizations and cell phone manufacturers are attempting to address this problem and improve the recycling rates for unwanted cell phones.

Why should cell phones be recycled?

The main problem with the cell phone disposal is that their batteries contain toxic elements that can contaminate the

If phones are thrown into regular rubbish landfills, the lead and cadmium in the batteries can seep into the soil and underground water supply. This can cause serious environmental damage, making the earth and water unsafe for future use.

Over 80% of the parts in cell phones can be recycled and it is very easy and convenient for people to do. It is one simple practice that regular people can do to help the environment, and yet the rates of recycling are still disturbingly low.

In 2007, the Environmental Protection Agency estimated that only 10% of 140 million phones were recycled in the United States. It is clear that awareness needs to be raised about cell phone recycling.

US telecommunications company, Sprint, is hoping to improve the low recycling rates. They have set a target to have a recycling collection rate of 90% by the year 2017.

Another step that the industry is taking to reduce the waste associated with cell phones is standardizing cell phone chargers by the year 2012. This will mean a dramatic reduction in the amount of cell phone accessories that are thrown away each year.

How can I recycle my cell phone?

In fact, each of the four main cell phone providers in the United States (and many any other countries) are now making a concerted effort to improve cell phone recycling rates.

Most cell phone retail outlets have a drop-off bin where you can leave your unwanted cell phones and accessories. They don’t mind where the phone comes from, or whether or not it is linked to their particular network.

Some cell phone companies also offer financial incentives, such as a rebate or buy-back arrangements, as an incentive for recycling phones. There are also established charities where unwanted, functioning phones are donated to needy people. The second-hand phones are also often resold with the profits going to a particular cause.

If you thinking of using one of these cell phone recycling facilities, it is important that you remember to delete all of your personal information from the phone first to ensure your security. You can find out exactly how to do this correctly by checking the manufacturer’s website.

Of course, there is more than cell phone recycling that you can do.