Smart phone and electronic devices recycling offered free of cost

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The disposal of old electronics and phone devices has become a burning issue with customers switching over to latest models of smart phone devices. A recent study conducted by a German market research firm GfK revealed that the worldwide smart phone sales jumped 23% over the previous year to total in excess of 1.2 billion units in 2014.

According to US EPA, a lot needs to be done on effectively recycling the huge chunks of discarded electronics. The agency warns that these electronic devices, if thrown into landfills, could become dangerous as it contains lead, nickel, cadmium and mercury which can cause harm to human life. Hence it is essential that these devices are properly collected and recycled in an environment-friendly manner. As per US EPA data for 2010, a total of 2.44 million tons of electronics devices were disposed, out of which only 27% was recycled.

Studies indicate that recycling of 1 million cell phones would result in energy saving to power nearly 200 American homes. In addition, 35,274 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold and 33 pounds of palladium can be recovered.

There are several programs that present the customer with the option of easy and cost-free recycling of smartphones and other electronic devices. The most popular among such programs is the one offered by Best Buy. Estimates suggest that almost 400 pounds of appliance and electronic products are collected every minute through Best Buy Stores for recycling.

Also, certain charitable organizations such as Cell Phones for Soldiers also offer free cell phone recycling. The proceeds of sale of phones donated through this scheme is used to purchase international calling cards for troops and provide financial assistance to veteran soldiers. The program has collected approximately 11.6 million cell phones ever since its inception in 2004.