How to Recycle Cordless Telephones

Recycle your used cordless telephone.

A cordless phone, like any other electronic device, contains components made of plastics, rubber and a circuit board with trace metals and potentially hazardous materials. The battery of a cordless phone is also hazardous to the environment. Plastic and rubber components, especially on older phones, may not naturally decompose in a landfill. Consumers should dispose of all used electronics properly. When you are ready to dispose of your old phone, recycle it and protect the environment.

Instructions

1. Check with your local waste management provider for a local drop-off location for used electronics components. Many municipalities have special drop-off locations for used electronics.

2. Look online for local options to recycle electronics. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests a number of options, including EcoSquid, Earth911 and the Consumer Electronics Association's "My Green Electronics" program.

3. Take the cordless telephone to your local Best Buy store. All Best Buy retail stores participate in a Greener Together program. Best Buy will accept just about anything electronic for recycling, including cordless telephones. Call ahead or check their website to ensure your local store will accept your old phone.

Tips & Warnings

• Many municipalities host regular events over the course of the year to recycle used electronics.

• Do not simply dispose of your old cordless phone in the trash. All electronics contain trace metals in circuit boards and switches that are bad for the environment.

References

• EPA: Where Can I Donate or Recycle My Old Computer and Other Electronic Products?
• Best Buy: Ecycle Program

Resources

• EcosSquid
• Earth 911
• My Green Electronics