Why Recycle Cell Phones?
It's dangerous to dispose of personal electronics in the garbage; but keeping them in storage forever isn't useful either. Instead of hoarding unused electronics devices in a drawer somewhere, Wirefly and Simplexity encourage you to recycle or donate your used cell phones.
Three reasons participate in a recycling program:
- It's better for the environment. Cell phones, like other electronic equipment, contain materials that are toxic if they leak.
- It might be of use to someone else. Many charities will collect cell phones for fundraising or to give directly to people who need them.
- It is unlawful in some states to not recycle your cellular phones and cell phone accessories. There is a growing movement to protect the environment and law makers all over the world are taking note.
Whether you donate your phone to a fundraising group or sell it to get some cash back, the process couldn't be easier. Drop your phone off at a collection point or send it in to a participating site. Most will even send you a prepaid shipping label to speed along the process.
The organizations will see to it that your phone is:
- Reused: If wireless devices and accessories are in good working condition, they may be reused by a number of worthy charities. Cell phones are a useful resource for victims of domestic violence, for example, because 911 emergency calls can be placed even on phones that are deactivated.
- Refurbished: Wireless devices may be reconditioned or repaired. The refurbished devices are then resold where there is demand, often in foreign countries that lag behind in technology.
- Recycled/Recovered: If the cell phone cannot be reused or refurbished, the handsets are sent to processing facilities that properly dispose of toxic parts and safely recycle reusable materials.
