The current trend towards more sophisticated smartphones and frequent technological advances means that recent phones can command high prices from mobile phone recycling companies. Price comparison websites show prices of £200 for the iPhone 3GS. However, recycling rates are very low in relation to the huge amount of mobiles in circulation. In some countries like the UK, there are more phones than people.
At first glance it might appear strange that consumers are not sending their recent model phones in for recycling as soon as they upgrade. After all, the longer someone waits the less money they will get for their phone. Nevertheless, there may be a strong reason why some are hesitant to recycle and instead hold on to their old phone. For example if someone upgrades their sony Ericsson X1 to a new iPhone 4, why would he not promptly trade in his old phone and receive £70? Well, if he loses his new iPhone, how quickly would he receive a replacement? If his business depends on his having data with him all the time, he cannot afford any delays in getting a new phone. However, if he has retained the X1 a quick phone call to his mobile phone company can get the SIM reactivated and he can transfer all his data by syncing with his email provider. If mobile phone providers could guarantee same day replacement then more users might recycle their mobiles rather than retaining them until they are worthless, with the risk they may end up in landfill.