Today is Earth Day, and whilst this year’s focus is on Planet vs Plastics (did you know 380 million tonnes of plastic are now produced every year and only 9 percent has ever been recycled!?), we thought we would share some tips on how mobile phone users can become a bit eco-friendlier with their devices.
It’s no secret that the extraction of the materials needed to make a smartphone (gold, cobalt, lithium, and other heavy metals) can cause significant environmental pollution, yet mobile phones seem to have become a permanent fixture in the palm of our hands. What’s more, these devices are constantly being updated with shiny new features, better cameras, and more sophisticated operating systems that most users cannot resist and subsequently upgrade their phone every 2-3 years, with some doing it as often as once a year.
Once upgraded, what happens to the discarded device? Many people hold onto their old mobile phones, despite having the latest model for all their daily needs. Are you guilty of hoarding old devices because you don’t know what to do with them, or maybe you hang onto them for that ‘just in case’ scenario? Some people might keep them for nostalgia or simply because they are a tech-nerd.
Today we can give you some tips on what to do with those old devices, and in general how to be more environmentally conscious when considering usage of mobile phones:
Recycle
Plenty of places will give you cash if you recycle your old mobile phone with them. Prices will vary depending on the make, model, and condition, but it’s worth looking into, the phone doesn’t even have to be in working order to exchange for a small amount of money. Make sure you shop around, there are plenty of online retailers who will take your phone, and there may also be some independent shops on your local high street. You can also donate your phone to a charity without the need for a cash payment.
Pass it On
Perhaps you have a parent who can’t keep up with the latest tech, or their current phone was invented in the dark ages. You can give them your old phone; but if they are not on the same network as you, it will need to be unlocked to allow their sim to function properly in the device. Children are also good receptacles for an old phone, rather than paying huge sums for a brand new one to be immediately dropped down the toilet, or the screen smashed within 3 weeks of use, just give them your old one.
Please note if you are selling, lending, or giving away your old device, before you do anything make sure to perform a Factory Reset which will clear out any personal data and installed apps.
Buy Second Hand
There are many places that offer refurbished phones for a fraction of the cost of a new one, this saves you money, and also makes use of someone else’s discarded phone.
Fairphone
Try a Fairphone – Fairphone is a brand of phone that claims to be greener and more responsible. You can have a look at them here: shop.fairphone.com We are planning to do a review of them in a separate post.
SIM only deals
When the time comes for renewing your contract, instead of upgrading to a new model, why not go for a sim only deal? Sim only contracts are not only good for the environment (because you are continuing to use your current device), but it is also good for your pocket. At the moment we have some great sim only deals for just 9.75 per month. For more information about these deals please get in touch, our contact details are here https://simpatico.co.uk/contact/
Keep the Battery Healthy
Healthy batteries extend the life of your mobile phone, so if you look after the battery, then the phone will last longer. Modern phone batteries charge relatively quickly so there is no need to leave them on charge overnight, in fact, it is probably better instead to periodically top up the charge during the day. Apple recommends that an iPhone battery is best kept between 30 and 80%, with perhaps a full 100% charge once a month.
Other Ways to Look After Your Phone
We have already written a post on ways you can look after your phone, and hopefully extend it’s life here
