April 22, 2009
On Earth Day 2009, MyWireless.org® Calls for Wireless Device and Accessory Awareness and Responsibility
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Americans all over the country celebrate Earth Day today, the national consumer advocacy coalition MyWireless.org® called for heightened consumer awareness for recycling their retired wireless devices and accessories. Generations both young and old today are interested in having a positive impact on the environment, and recycling their communication devices and accessories is a responsible measure everyone can take.
Wireless service providers, handset manufacturers, electronics retailers and community groups around the country in recent years have taken more environmentally-conscious steps by providing millions of Americans in-store take-back programs, enhancing consumer-friendly drop-off opportunities, and operating recycling and philanthropic donation programs. In this increasingly mobile and consumer-driven climate, MyWireless.org urges America’s more than 270 million wireless consumers to accept their own responsibility to help create a low-carbon economy, and to follow the leadership of the wireless industry on this issue.
Brian Johnston, Director of Communications and Federal Advocacy for MyWireless.org, said, “The demand for wireless services and products by American wireless consumers continues to grow, and with that comes the need for greater consumer awareness for how equipment can be safely donated, recycled, resold or re-used. Americans are leading the charge to become more energy efficient and environmentally-sensitive, and there are numerous opportunities to make wireless a part of their effort to go green.”
Johnston reminds wireless consumers that all of the major carriers and most smaller ones offer in-store take-back programs, and that many manufacturers include recycling mailing material in the packaging for their new devices. And that today is the perfect time to do their part. “Clean out that box or that old sock drawer at home, and put those old devices and cords and chargers to a good use by recycling them. Earth Day 2009 marks the perfect occasion for us to mobilize consumers across the country to take part in using their wireless to make this world a better place.”
Recent MyWireless.org polling data shows that 84% of wireless consumers are aware that their cell phone or wireless device is a recyclable product. 68% are aware that their cell phone or wireless device ‘accessories’ are also recyclable products. 69% of consumers polled are aware of recycling programs, either by their wireless provider or other, that would accept their used wireless products. And interestingly, 57% of consumers polled would be more willing to participate in a wireless service provider’s recycling program if it was for a not-for-profit or philanthropic reason, with any products or revenues generated being donated to a good cause. Meanwhile, 30% of consumers polled would be more willing to participate in a wireless service provider’s recycling program if it was for environmental reasons or a green concern that they may have for the materials.