FAQ - CELL PHONES
Do you accept accessories such as earpieces, owner's manuals, and chargers?
No. We do not accept accessories such as earpieces, chargers, manuals, etc. We encourage you to include batteries with your donation, as batteries contain many toxic substances and should be recycled properly.
What happens with the cell phones?
Used cell phones that have an economic value are refurbished and reused in markets utilizing compatible wireless technologies. Reuse reduces the depletion of our Earth's finite resources. The proceeds from the resale of these used items enable PASS to continually expand our recycling efforts and provide less fortunate people a means of obtaining an inexpensive technology.
What types of cell phones do you accept?
We accept every brand of cell phone, working and non-working.
What happens to information stored in the cell phones?
Cell phones that are recycled are completely dismantled, and through this process the information is destroyed. Phones that are reused in other markets are "flashed" to allow new software to be loaded. This process erases the phone's memory and enables a new number to be assigned. However, we strongly recommend that donors clear the memories on their cell phones of any sensitive private information before donating them. In addition, donors should always ensure the service on any cell phone they donate has been disconnected, to prevent fraudulent use. We will not be responsible for any information left stored in the memories of phones donated or their fraudulent use.
Are phone donations tax deductible?
The value of most phones qualifies as a tax deductible donation. Please contact your tax professional for more information.
Why are cell phones so harmful to the environment?
Improper disposal of cell phones is a serious threat to our environment. Every cell phone contains no less that 8 hazardous materials including Arsenic, Antimony, Beryllium, Cadmium, Copper, Lead, Nickel and Zinc. Disposing of these phones in a landfill allows these substances to leach into groundwater and soil. Burning them in an incinerator releases chemicals associated with reproductive complications, cancers, and developmental problems especially in children. In 2006 alone, more than 130 million cell phones will be discarded. One cell phone can pollute up to 132,000 liters of water.