People are becoming increasingly aware that recycling their old mobile phones can be financially rewarding as well as kind to the environment. Nevertheless, there is considerable scope for improvement in recycling rates, so what are the barriers to achieving higher levels?
It is not unusual to encounter individuals who shudder at the prospect of letting go of their old handsets because of the valuable data they hold. Mobile phone disposal has become more complicated because phone memories contain a wealth of personal information ranging from text messages through to pictures and videos. Sadhbh Doherty, an Irish designer, may have provided the answer with his clever invention known as “Arcque”. This is designed to simplify mobile phone recycling by helping users return their old phones to the manufacturer. In return they receive a bead. This is a gadget made from pulverised circuit boards that contains a gold or silver centre piece made from copper contained in the old mobile. The bead contains memory and bluetooth chips from the old phone and a kinetic motor that is powered by shaking. Users can access the digital memory from the bead using a bluetooth device.
In addition to its obvious benefit as a tool to aid recycling, the bead looks good too and can be used as a fashion accessory. It’s small and lightweight and ideal for use as a shirt button, ring or possibly earrings.