Many Brits don’t know how to properly get rid of old tech (Image: Getty)
If you have sitting at home, now might be the time to get rid.
are set to phase out its 3G network this April, meaning that old phone kept for emergencies could no longer be of any use. The roll out is predicted to generate a whopping £13.7 million of e-waste.
Getting rid of a phone might sound straight forward but that isn’t entirely the case. In fact there are proper ways of getting rid of old tech and according to research many Brits aren’t aware of it.
Back Market surveryed 1,002 adults and found that 72% people have old phones lying around yet 40% do not know how to dispose of them properly.
However, the global marketplace for refurbished devices, revealed ways to make sure you’re helping the environment while .
:
Luke Forshaw, spokesperson for Back Market, said: “Most of us have an old phone lying around somewhere, whether it’s a backup that never gets used or a relic from years past.
“But with the UK’s 3G network shutting down, many of these devices are about to become completely obsolete. Now’s the perfect time to clear out old tech and make sure it’s recycled properly.”
Binning the phone is a big no no. The expert revealed that the “valuable materials” in devices such as gold, silver, and copper can be resued and “toxic components should never end up in landfills.”
He continued: “Instead, consider recycling or refurbishing options that ensure these materials are recovered responsibly.”
Don’t miss… [REVEAL] [REVEAL] [REPORT]
Recycling old phone ensures valuable materials are recovered properly (Image: Getty)
Finding out if the old phone is worth a bit of money is also recommended, with a “thriving” second-hand market, your phone can be refurbished or resold even if it is old or damaged. However, if you struggle getting it sold, well there are many certified recycling schemes that major mobile networks are involved in or you could donate it to charity.
Which ever way you decide to get rid of a phone, the expert highlighted one thing that must be done ahead.
“Before you hand over your phone, make sure you’ve backed up and wiped all personal data. The easiest way is to do a factory reset, but also remember to remove any SD cards and sign out of accounts like iCloud or Google to protect your privacy,” explained Luke Forshaw
The company which gives “old devices a new lease of life” emphasised that getting rid of unused and old tech is beneficial for both the environment and our pockets, so don’t wait until it is too late.