Hubby has worked for two different cell phone companies in the past, and quite often he’d swap out his phone for a newer model. I’ve been with three different companies during my cell phone ownership history, and have had at least one phone for each company I've been with. As a result, we have a drawer full of old cell phones, parts, cables, manuals, you name it. I’m trying to get rid of some of our clutter, and I know we can do some good with these old cell phones. I had heard about donating old cell phones for victims of domestic violence, but I just recently found out that Wirefly, one of the leading online cell phone retailers, also provided cell phone recycling services. There’s a lot of useful information on their site, like why it’s important to recycle cell phones, the charities they support and work with, and even some cell phone statistics to put things in perspective.
There are several options when it comes to getting rid of our old phones. Once Wirefly receives your phone, they will inspect it and format the memory. Based on its condition, they will determine how it can best be used. They may donate it to a charity like Call To Protect.Or they may sell it as a refurbished phone and either pay you cash for it, or donate the proceeds to the charity indicated during the quote process. If the phone is inoperable, they will properly dispose of toxic materials, and recycle reusable parts. They also provide links and information on other recycling programs from major cell phone carriers and retailers.
I had no idea that in some states, it is the law to recycle used cell phone batteries. Cell phone recycling is yet another way to help save the environment, and get rid of those old cell phones cluttering up your closets and drawers. Looks like a win-win all around.