Since its modest introduction to the telecommunications market in the mid 1980s, the cell phone has undergone numerous cosmetic and functional modifications. What began as an expensive, cumbersome luxury item with nothing more to offer than the ability to send and receive voice calls, has become the most versatile "must have" accessory of the millennium. Never before have so many desirable and diverse features been packed into such an affordable, stylish and compact unit.

Today's cell phone industry turns over an estimated $30 billion per year, servicing a staggering 60 billion users around the world. With a constant flow of technologically superior models entering the market, and the growing trend towards ever younger cell phone users, these numbers are increasing at an alarming rate. As a result, vast quantities of outdated and damaged cell phones are finding their way into landfill. This year alone over 125 million cell phones will be disposed of, presenting significant environmental concerns.

As a direct response to the emergence of the disposable society we now inhabit, pollution prevention policies have grown to encompass the appropriate management of not only toxic and hazardous waste but all recyclable materials. Cell phones fall into both of these categories. When left to break down in landfill, cell phones can leach serious toxins such as lead and arsenic, but they are also an invaluable resource for precious metals and other materials which, when recycled, have the potential to considerably reduce energy consumption.

Cell phone recyclers are now an essential feature in the overall waste management system, offering a superior alternative to simply throwing away redundant and inoperative units. The main aim of cell phone recyclers is to salvage the various valuable components for reuse, but they are often also involved in facilitating the redistribution of working, superseded models to needy and disadvantaged groups. These older models can become lifelines for those who, for numerous reasons, have not had access to this type of technology.

Many cell phone recyclers pay cash for old phones, creating a further incentive for recycling through fundraising within schools, church groups and other organizations with large membership numbers. A scan through your local newspaper, phone directory or online will provide details of where and how to find your closest recycling outlet, and the services they offer. Some of the larger recycling companies will offer a mailing service where phones can just be popped into a prepaid envelope and into the mailbox. There is no longer any excuse to throw unwanted cell phones out with the garbage.

Cell phones have certainly become an integral part of our everyday lives. We have come to rely on them for security, convenience, and social interaction. By reusing, recycling and reducing their environmental impact we can reap their benefits with a clear conscience for many years to come.

Learn more about this author, Karyn Burchall.
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