How to Create a Mobile Phone Recycling Culture Successfully

The use of electronic gadgets and particularly mobile phones has increased rapidly over the last decade thus augmenting the problem of pollution. Environmentalists are of the opinion that if we can’t curtail consumption, our planet will be devastated with the massive amounts of e-waste generated every day. However, reducing excessive use of cellphones is not easy. So, as an alternative, people must be made aware of recycling programs and the process so that they realize the significance of it, thus taking part in the process. According to them, a culture for recycling mobile phones must be created to deal with this problem.

Government and non-profit organizations are running many programs and have taken up initiatives to spread awareness among the general public regarding recycling and its benefits. Not just saving the environment, but also earning cash benefits is a huge part of these programs. Whether they are effective or not, is yet to be seen. But, measures have been taken to encourage people in participating in this phenomenon. Mobile phone take backs are a major part of these programs. All the major mobile manufacturing companies have launched this kind of programs to encourage the users to give back their old mobile phones. These programs are beneficial to the users because they get a considerable amount of cash on their old mobile phones which will otherwise, to go the scrap.

These companies use all kinds of media to reach out to the users. In this regard, they follow certain steps to spread awareness for the programs. These are:

• Introducing the Agenda- Introducing the agenda to the public requires lots of planning. In some countries, people understand the message of environmental safety while in others they understand the language of money. These companies try a combined approach to encourage people to recycle their old mobile phones. In remote areas of Africa, companies use radio to reach out to the mass with considerable success. Sometimes, giving small gifts can be useful in encouraging phone users to give up their old phones.
• Building the Infrastructure- Infrastructure for collection is of paramount importance to popularize recycling. Changing the mindset and habit of people, along with offering proper collection facilities, contributes towards the success of the campaign. Right communication combined with easy take-back options can do the wonders. Special collection bins and mail-back envelopes are in place to encourage mass contribution. The take-back kiosks or bins must be carefully placed to make those readily available. The bins have to be empty, and the rubbish has to be collected frequently. The bin practice will be successful when placed within the company premises. Sending the mobile phones through the postal order is the easiest process for users who wish to give away their devices. Only dropping off the handset to the nearest mailbox will make it work. However, this method is not effective in terms of large volumes of products. Proper logistics must be set up and followed to make the processes successful. Also, care must be taken that people do not drop-off all kinds of materials in the recycling bins.
• Building Partnerships to Expand Program- Collaborating with different partners can aid in developing the recycling programs. The programs need to be more efficient, convenient and attractive for the common mass. Universities, schools, environmental NGOs, retail chains and telecommunication operators cooperate to make the programs successful. These also help in raising awareness for recycling education. All of these centers have the different degree of impact on the people belonging to different walks of life.
• Data Collection- Data collection helps in evaluating and improving the impact of recycling programs on the users. It also helps in planning logistics and collection methods. Moreover, it aids in formulating the marketing campaigns for a later stage. Transparent data system enables long-term partnership building. This includes sharing the best practices in public forums and also reporting performance. This system can prevent illegal transportation of e-waste to developing countries.

All these points contribute immensely towards building a mobile phone recycling culture. At this day and age, we need to realize the importance of recycling. Building a proper culture will go a long way in preventing depletion of natural resources and saving the planet.

Author Bio:

John Tiropanis is a prolific blogger regarding all kinds of topics related to environmental matters. He is researching on recycling mobile phones from various perspectives to pass on the information to the users.