How to recycle an old cellphone

1. Extend your phone’s life

The most environmentally beneficial thing you can do with your cellphone is to use it as long as possible. Here are some tips for extending its life:

• Protect the screen from scratches and breakage with a screen protector.
• Does your device drain quickly? Try some quick tips to save your phone’s battery.
• Is your device getting sluggish? Try freeing up storage space to lighten its load (see how to do this on an iPhone or Android device).

2. Trade in your phone

If your phone is still relatively new, but you would like a new model, you can try trading it in at the store.

How much is my cellphone worth?

Your phone may still be worth something! With the Videotron Trade-in Credit, you can get a credit toward the purchase of a new phone when you bring in an old one. The amount of the credit depends on the phone’s age, model, and condition, but it can be as much as $500, and even more during certain promotions. If your device is functional or can be repaired, it will be recovered for reuse. Learn more about the Trade-in Credit.

3. Recycle your phone

Is your phone no longer working and unrepairable? It’s a good candidate for recycling. Take your phone to a Videotron store, where it will be processed through the revi program.

What’s the revi program?

It’s Videotron’s program for recovering small electronic devices. In collaboration with Uni-Recycle, we collect obsolete equipment and give it a second life.

When you bring us your old cellphone, you can rest assured that:

• The SIM card and the data on the device will be securely destroyed.
• The unit will be repaired and resold, if possible.
• Otherwise, its reusable parts will be recovered.
• Unserviceable parts will be recycled.
• The company that processes your device meets international recycling standards.

All you have to do is come into the store and give your devices to a representative. We take back all kinds of small electronics—so remember to bring in your old illico terminals, modems, remotes, and cables gathering dust at the back of the closet!

Good to know
Remember to back up any photos, videos, or important documents that may be stored on your old phone.

Secure data destruction

It’s generally recommendend to reset your phone to factory settings before bringing it in for recovery. However, if you don't, your data will be securely destroyed. Uni-Recycle has a “Databot” which destroys the data contained in a phone, without damaging the other components that can be recovered.

The Databot destroys data with precision.

The robot drills a small hole exactly where the data is stored. Untouched parts can be recovered or recycled.

And if you need a new device…

There are options for reducing the environmental impact of buying a mobile phone. For example, you can choose a certified refurbished phone. These used devices, which are still in good shape, have a lot to offer! To enjoy your new-to-you phone for as long as possible, sign up for the Mobile Device Protection Program. It allows you to get your phone fixed for less in case of damage.

In a nutshell, there are ways to keep cellphones out of the landfill. Today’s smart decisions are tomorrow’s good news!

Read also:

• How to free up space on an iPhone
• How to free up space on an Android device
• 10 tips to preserve battery life on your cellphone
• Mobile data backup 101

*Source: MINTEL. Sustainability in Technology – Canada – 2024, November 30, 2024, 74 pp.