Cellular phones and other mobile devices often contain toxic materials that can pollute the environment. The chemicals contained in the cell phones and electronics are harmful to the health of both humans and animals. Cell phones and their accessories contain a large number of hazardous substances known as Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic Chemicals (PBTs). Some of the chemicals contained in the PBTs have been known to cause damage to nervous systems, reproductive systems, and developmental systems, as well as causing cancer.

When recycled properly, the materials can be put back into circulation, reducing the health risks to the community. The materials that are contained in old cell phones can often be recycled and reused to make a variety of other products. Additionally, in order to comply with environmental protection regulations, many countries have very specific requirements and methods for disposing of cell phones, batteries, and other toxic items. Rather than wrestling with disposal guidelines yourself, it is often much easier to just sell or donate old cell phones to a company qualified to recycle them.