You may not think that a mobile phone can be particularly harmful to the environment. But the reality is, although day-to-day use of a phone will do little damage, those crucial devices that we can no longer live without can negatively impact the environment in a number of ways.

For those who want to make an effort to be more environmentally conscious, choosing a reconditioned phone rather than opting for a brand new model can be a step in the right direction.

If you’re not quite convinced, here, we consider how buying a second-hand phone can be environmentally friendly.

The Impact of Phones on The Environment

First, we should consider how mobile phones impact the environment and cause problems.

CO2 Emissions

As mobiles continue to become more advanced, they continue using lots of resources.

Mining these specialised materials produces a significant amount of CO2 emissions which is harmful because it can contribute to climate change, pollution and other disruptions to the natural world.

The production process accounts for between 85 and 95 per cent of a phone’s CO2 emissions over a typical lifecycle of two years. The remaining emissions are accounted for in the energy consumed by using the phone and recharging it.

Researchers have ascertained that the production of a new phone uses the same amount of energy as you would use from running and charging a phone for ten years.

Despite advancements in the abilities of smart devices, there has been no advancement in the reduction of CO2 emissions during production. In fact, the very opposite is true; with every newer and bigger model, there is potential to mine more materials and create further emissions. A 2015 study concluded that the production of the iPhone 6 produced 57 per cent more CO2 than its predecessor, the iPhone 4S.

Resources Used in Production

Many resources used in production are also non-renewable. Metals like neodymium, terbium and dysprosium are not only difficult to mine, but are also finite; we will run out of these resources and be unable to replenish them.

There are 17 metals on Earth that are classified as rare. Shockingly, 16 of them are used when making the average smartphone!

Waste

Waste is another significant concern when it comes to a phone’s environmental impact.

With constant updates and society’s need for the next best thing, mobile phones have short lifecycles when compared to other pieces of technology. Sadly, only a very small percentage of phones are recycled every year, and most people’s old phones will end up in landfill.

Electronic waste is some of the most toxic, causing soil, water and air pollution when disposed of improperly. E-waste accounts for up to 70 percent of toxic landfill. Properly recycling phones can be one way to reduce the amount of waste that is produced by this sector.

The Environmental Benefits of Refurbished Devices

So, what can we do to reduce our carbon footprint and level of waste contribution?

Buying a second-hand phone is the easiest thing you can do if you’re worried about your phone’s environmental impact.

This option is so great because you’re helping to combat the two major ways phones can be destructive – CO2 emissions and waste! Choosing a refurbished device means you are not contributing to the carbon emissions that a new phone would produce and there will be reduced demand on resources. Buying a second-hand phone also means that you are potentially saving it from being wasted in landfill.

You may think this will barely make a dent into the problems associated with phones, but if enough people commit to this choice, a positive environmental impact can be made!

Refurbished devices help prolong the lifespan a phone. We have been programmed to renew our phones every two years or so, even when they are perfectly operational. If you do need a new device, giving a new lease of life to a reconditioned one is the best choice.

The Manufacturer’s Role

If there is a large-scale movement to being more mindful about how we dispose of and purchase mobile phones, it will prompt manufacturers to act more responsibly.

The growing interest in sustainability and possible position of second-hand phones within the movement shows manufacturers that investing in more sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices can be valuable.

How to Choose a Sustainable Device

Before choosing a second-hand phone, you should know what to look out for to prevent any more resources being used and wasted if you end up with a phone you aren’t happy with.

Know What to Expect

A refurbished device from a quality distributor has been surgically cleaned and put through rigorous testing. It will be completely operational and work perfectly. The only difference from buying a brand new model is that the phone will have had a previous owner, and the price will be far cheaper, of course! Some devices may have cosmetic faults, but this will often be outlined in a clear grading system.

Grading Systems

Grading systems will indicate what condition the phone is in. Prices will also correlate to a phone’s rating.

Here at Second-Hand Phones, we use the following grade system:

• New Open Box: an indication that the handset is in brand new cosmetic condition with the branded box.

• New No Box: same phone condition as above, but without the box.

• Pristine: perfect cosmetic condition and in excellent working order.

• Very Good: very good cosmetic condition with very few physical signs of wear.

• Good: slightly more signs of wear but still in excellent working order.

• Grade C: more signs of visible wear but the screen is still intact, and the phone is in full working order. Phones with this grade will be the cheapest.

Find a Reputable Seller

A clear and consistent grading system is often the mark of a reputable seller. The internet is full of individuals selling old devices for seemingly good deals, but if you want to ensure that you are getting a quality item that has been professionally refurbished, finding a reputable seller is key.

Here at Second-Hand Phones, we stand by our products and back them up with a 12-month warranty, so you can be sure you are getting a quality used device.

If you’ve been convinced and want to make your next device a refurbished phone, why not take a look at our range? We stock major brands and quality devices at affordable prices, so you can show the planet and your wallet a bit of love!