THERE are more than 130,000 mobile phones laying idle in New England homes, after being replaced or breaking down, with almost 40,000 in Tamworth alone.
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That number is expected to rise again as nearly half of the population think of buying a new mobile during the summer sales, according to the organisers of MobileMuster, a not-for-profit mobile phone recycling program.
Despite record awareness of mobile phone recycling, Australians are still reluctant to part with old phones, some of which don’t even work, says Mobile Muster recycling manager Rose Read.
The program aims to keep old mobiles out of landfill and ensure they are recycled safely, securely and ethically, putting 90 per cent of materials back into use. Nothing is resold and all data is destroyed.
This year, MobileMuster will give $2 to the Salvation Army for every kilogram that is recycled in December and January, with an aim to raise $32,000.
Phones can be dropped off at phone retailers, post offices and local council administration centres.
To find the nearest drop-off point, visit mobilemuster.com.au
