Got a new smartphone that you have wished long to buy? Everyone has a mobile phone these days and we love to replace them regularly with latest versions right? But, what to do with your old phone? Never throw them out. Let us discuss on how to dispose of old cell phones properly.
Cell Phones as E-waste
Cell phones are a major source of electronic waste, or e-waste, as users upgrade frequently with constant advancements in technology. This will leave behind a growing pile of discarded devices.
The materials used to make cell phones mainly consist of glass, aluminium, copper, and gold as well as minerals like quartz and silica; plastics and ceramics. Careful combination of these materials leads to conductivity, durability, and lightweight properties.
A journal in Science Direct has reported that the annual e-waste generation in Canada is estimated to be 1.2 million tons by 2030. If not disposed of properly, our phones will hurt our nature. Contaminated elements like mercury and lead can enter the soil and water supply. This is why proper disposal of e-waste is critical.
9 Benefits of Disposing Old Mobile Phones Properly
- Reduces environmental impact
- Conserves natural resources
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Prevents e-waste export
- Creates employment opportunities
- Supports corporate social responsibility
- Reduces cost of manufacturing new phones
- Protects data privacy
- Reduces clutter in home or workspace
Proper Disposal Methods of Cell Phones
Here are some sustainable solutions to ensure your old cell phone doesn't end up harming the planet:
Recycle and reuse
By repairing and reusing old mobile phones, you can reduce electronic waste, preserve valuable resources and reduce environmental impact. Many manufacturers, electronic retailers, and local waste management centres offer recycling programs for mobile phones. Such programs ensure that devices are properly recycled, and valuable materials are saved for reuse. Look for certified e-waste recyclers or local electronic retailers to find the nearest drop-off locations or mail-in options. Reliable cell phone recycling programs often accept old devices regardless of brand and ensure they are properly refurbished.
Sell or trade-in
For devices that are still in good working condition, consider selling it for credit towards a new one. Online marketplaces like eBay offer options to sell used mobile phones directly to others. Cellphone carriers and retailers offer trade-in programs where you can exchange your old device for a discount on a new purchase. By reselling the device, its lifespan gets extended and also reduces the demand for new electronics.
Make sure that your phone is in better condition. If you need cash or aren't buying a new phone soon, a third-party selling will work.
Why not donate to the needful
Donating your old cell phone is another great way to give it a second life and support a worthy cause. Several charities also accept old phones. Cell Phones for Soldiers and similar useful programs reuse devices to make key communication tools for active military and veterans. Before donating, check the charity's guidelines to see if they accept your specific phone model and condition.
Repurpose
Why not go creative and find new uses for your old cell phone. Repurpose it as a security camera monitor, devoted music player, e-reader, or even a handheld gaming device. By giving it a second life, you extend its value and reduce the demand for new devices.
Don’t Forget To
- Clean your data: Before selling or recycling your cell phone, erase all personal data. It is ideal to use an advanced data wiping software to remove sensitive information such as photos, contacts, and login details. This prevents any unauthorized access to your data.
- Dispose batteries properly: If your old cell phone's battery is not detachable, disposing it requires extra care. Batteries that are typically lithium-ion, contain dangerous materials that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Certified electronic waste (e-waste) centres can assist with safe and eco-friendly disposal options.
While you follow these safe disposal methods, you should also encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to adopt sustainable practices when dealing with old electronics and highlight the importance of reducing electronic waste for the health of our planet. Let's all do our part in minimizing environmental impact and promoting ethical recycling practices. It is ideal to get professional support to recycle old cell phones.
