These days almost everyone owns a cell phone.  Several mobile companies such as Sprint, Credo Mobile, and Earth Tones even provide green phones for socially conscious consumers.

Though people usually use their cell phones to talk to people during office hours or chat with family and friends, they can be a useful tool for green activism.   Mobile Active is one of many organizations that teaches consumers to use “mobile technology for social impact.”  According to an article from  Planet Green, cell phones can help keep track of endangered elephants in Africa and promote forest conservations.

Old cell phones can also promote sustainability.  Rather than adding trash to the landfill, why not donate your old phone to a charitable organization?  I am sure you will feel much better knowing your old cell phone was used to helping homeless animals and showing appreciation to soldiers overseas, rather then adding more trash to the landfill.  Websites, such as Earth911 can also help you find cell phone recycling centers within your community.

Check out the Marketplace for more information on cell phones and why recycling is important.

Posted in Consumption, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle  | |  

About the Author

Michaella Song is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, where she obtained her BS in Environmental Policy. She is now a Communications Intern with New Dream.