Retailers, EPA working to increase cell phone recycling

GINO TROIANI Times Leader Intern

Local cell phone retailers are turning the tables this week as they participate with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in National Cell Phone Recycling Week.

They are taking in used cell phones, personal digital assistants and accessories so that materials such as copper and plastic can be recycled.

The “Plug-In To eCycling” campaign that runs through Sunday is a collaboration between EPA, leading cell phone manufacturers, retailers and service providers to increase national awareness about the importance of cell phone recycling.

EPA is targeting cell phone recycling because only 10 percent of cell phones are recycled each year, and most people do not know where to recycle them. Recycling these devices can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources and also benefits local communities through redistribution programs.

Sprint sales representative Ted Black said Sprint normally offers a phone recycling service, however this is the first year the company has teamed up with the EPA.

Recyclers are reminded to make sure their service contract is terminated and to erase all data on the phone.

In addition, manufacturers and service providers such as Nokia, Sprint, Samsung, T-Mobile, Motorola, LG Electronics, Verizon Wireless and Sony Ericsson are allowing patrons to donate their items via mail.

Participating locations include AT&T, Best Buy, Office Depot, Sony Ericsson, Sprint, Staples, T-Mobile, LG Electronics and Verizon Wireless. For more information visit www.epa.gov/cellphones.