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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