March 23, 2007—A partnership in Colorado has established a program to recycle used cell phones and believes it is applicable to other areas of the country.
Community Computer Connection, which refurbishes and donates computers to underserved communities and schools in Colorado, and Providers’ Resource Clearinghouse, a nonprofit that donates office supplies and furniture to community-based organizations, have partnered with The Wireless Alliance, a Boulder-based organization that collects, refurbishes and recycles used cell phone equipment to encourage the recycling of old cell phones and to save Colorado’s environment from the impact of improperly disposed electronic equipment.
Any individual or organization looking to recycle a cell phone, battery, or charger can now request a specially marked drop-off collection box or make an online donation at The Wireless Alliance.
For each cell phone collected, Community Computer Connection and Providers’ Resource Clearinghouse will receive funds from The Wireless Alliance that will be used to enhance their operations, including purchasing spare parts for computer refurbishment, truck repairs, and warehouse utilities.
Since 2001, The Wireless Alliance has reclaimed over 500 tons of wireless cellular equipment from landfills, says the group. During the same period, Community Computer Connection has reportedly refurbished and donated more than 13,000 computers, saving Colorado’s landfills from 400 tons of materials and 30 tons of lead. Providers’ Resource Clearinghouse redistributes over 80 tons of reused materials annually.
