Zeynep Demir / Shutterstock.com Cell Phones Illegal in Garbage, Recycling & Drains Hazardous Waste E-Waste Zeynep Demir / Shutterstock.com Cell phones are e-waste that can be disposed of through the County Household Hazardous Waste Program. If your cell phone is in good condition, consider donating it. The following organizations also accept cell phone donations: Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence | 234 E Gish Road, Ste 200 The following businesses will recycle your phone: AT&T | 1705 Story Rd AT&T | 2980 E Capitol Expy Ste 60 Best Buy | 3090 Stevens Creek Blvd Best Buy | 181 Curtner Ave Green Mouse Recycling | 529 Race St | (408) 464-9999 Right Parts | excess@rightpartsonline.com | 408-935-9505 Call or email to schedule a pickup. Sprint | Several Locations — Find Nearest One Staples | 760 Newhall Dr T-Mobile | Several Locations — Find Nearest One Verizon Wireless | Several Locations — Find Nearest One Never Throw in the Trash Cell phones contain toxic metals that can harm the environment, as well as precious metals, silicone, glass and plastic that can be reused. Phones are a major source of e-waste, so don’t throw them in the trash. Ways to Reuse Repurpose your Smartphone There are a lot of applications to give your phone a new life. An old smartphone can be used as a flash drive, a mobile mouse/trackpad or a baby monitor. Find lots of other creative uses at makeuseof.com. Did You Know? The Problem of E-Waste E-waste is a dangerous business in India and China, where e-waste recycling plants release toxic chemicals into the air and cause health problems for recycling workers. To learn more about e-waste, check out The Story of Stuff Project. Smartphone Metals Irreplaceable Researchers at Yale University analyzed all 62 metals used in smartphones and other contemporary consumer electronics, expecting to find at least a few that had potential material substitutes. However, none of the metals analyzed have a substitute for all functions, and 12 have no possible replacement at all. Read more at Yale News.
