| Cell Phone Recycling |
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Cell phones and their accessories contain a large number of hazardous substances including heavy metals which may linger in the environment for many years and have adverse effects on human health. An ore called coltan (columbite-tantalite) is a source of the element tantalum which is an essential coating for components of cell phones. This ore is found in the Congo in the middle of endangered gorilla and elephant habitats. Reducing the demand for coltan will aid in the preservation of these habitats. By recycling your cell phone, you are not only keeping toxic chemicals out of landfills, you are also aiding in the preservation of vital animal habitats by reducing the demand for coltan.In 2009, the Calgary Zoo was the third highest recycler of cell phones among zoos in North America after the Louisville and Toronto Zoos. Please join us in our goal to be the top recycler of cell phones in 2010! Our numbers so far: 2007=2505 phones collected 2008=2799 phones collected 2009=2887 phones collected Total: 8191 phones collected *2010*We are currently accepting cell phones for recycling. Cell phones may be dropped off at the South Security entrance or at the North or West Gates. If you require further information, or if you would like to recycle a large number of phones with us, please contact Lisa McDonald, Visitor Education Specialist at 403-232-9317. Please ensure that the phone services have been discontinued and all information has been erased from the phone. The Calgary Zoo and Eco-cell are not responsible for erasing information from donated cell phones. For more information please contact Lisa McDonald at (403) 232-9317. |
