Did you know?
It is estimated that there are up to 15 million old mobile phones unused in UK businesses and homes. Mobile phones contain toxic components and so if they cannot be reused they should be recycled or disposed of safely.
Recycle
The Authority will receive mobile phones at its Smugglers Way Household Waste and Recycling Centre. If the phone is in working order (even if it has a broken screen) it should be placed in the Small Domestic Appliances container for recycling.
If the phone has a swollen battery, then the following procedure should be followed:
- you must ensure its packed safely; place in a Non-Flammable container typically plastic with a tight-fitting lid (such as a butter tub)
- if possible, add non-flammable absorbent material like vermiculite
- label the container clearly and
- tell Recycling Centre staff immediately on arrival.
For example, Oxfam turn every mobile phone donated to them into cash to support their work. Mobile phones can be donated at any Oxfam Shop. Or, if you’re donating 6 or more phones you can call Oxfam on 0300 2001260 to arrange a free courier collection. Or by visiting Fonebank you can trade your mobile in for cash and donate to Oxfam at the same time.
Alternatively, MusicMagpie is a company that will allow you to sell or donate your Mobile Phones for free