Environmental Impact

As of June 2004, over 300 tons of cell phones and chargers are retired in user's homes. Another 60 tons are now in landfills. These cell phones contain hazardous substances released primarily in landfills. Several of the hazardous substances and their effects are:

• Brominated Flame Retardants - Persistent and toxic; leaches into soil and groundwater.
• Lead - Adversely impacts the central nervous system, immune system and kidneys; linked to developmental abnormalities.
• Beryllium - One of the most toxic metals to inhale; causes irreversible and sometimes fatal scarring of the lungs.
• Tantalum -Minimal toxicity testing done; possibly radioactive.
• Arsenic - Causes damage to nerves, skin and digestive system; can lead to death.
• Copper - Toxic to fish and marine life; causes liver damage and death in humans.

One of the best ways to prevent these hazardous substances from eventually entering the environment is to sign up for a free Cellular Recycler kit, and give your local schools, business, and non-profit an environmentally friendly option to dispose of their old cell phones. They'll be doing the environment a favor, and raising funds at the same time!

		The Colorado Association for Recycling is a non-profit organization formed as the independent voice of public, private, and citizen recyclers in Colorado.
		The National Recycling Coalition is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement and improvement of recycling, and also source reduction, composting, and reuse by providing technical information, education, training, outreach, and advocacy services to its members in order to conserve resources and benefit the environment.