Wireless Waste
o A 2005 CEA consumer survey found that 76 percent of consumers are unaware
of their local electronics recycling options. Of that 76 percent, 71 percent said they
would recycle if they only knew where to do so.
o The average life span of wireless phone is 18 months.
o Phones are being discarded at a rate of 125 million a year, which results in over
65,000 tons of wireless waste.
o The most eco-friendly thing you can do with an old phone is to reuse it.
o Recycling the phones ensures that the toxic materials they contain don't
end up in our landfills.
Tips to Reduce Wireless Waste
Phones contain toxic metals including arsenic, antimony, beryllium, cadmium, copper, lead, nickel and zinc that do not degrade in the environment, so it is important to recycle them. There are several leading industry recycling programs; among them are www.charitablerecycling.com, where you can donate your used cell phone and help make a difference, in both the environment and in someone's life. Old mobile phones that still work can be exported to developing countries where they can help bridge the digital divide, be given to domestic nonprofit organizations to assist those in need, or be dismantled for parts and recycled to make other products.
