Cell phones and batteries are major contributors of toxic substances to our landfills.
More than 13 million cell phones become obsolete in California every year, and historically only 7% have been recycled. Mobile phones contain hazardous levels of lead, nickel-cadmium, and other toxic materials. Over 80% of reusable batteries are composed of the hazardous heavy metals nickel and cadmium. While these and other rechargeable batteries have been banned from disposal in California for several years, recycling opportunities have lagged. (http://www.cawrecycles.org/issues/battery_waste) For every million cell phones we recycle, 35 thousand pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold, and 33 pounds of palladium can be recovered.”(Go to www.epa.gov for more information on how to recycle your cell phone.)
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