Handset recycling

Redundant handsets and accessories are collected through our retail stores, offices and by post and we also include return bags in the packaging of some products. Proceeds from our handset recycling programme continue to finance a number of good causes.

In addition, we take back handsets through trade-ins, when customers change their handsets for newer models.

Our recycling scheme - run by Regeneris (formerly Fonebak) - collects returned items for refurbishment and re-use or recycling, leaving only a small quantity of inert plastics destined for controlled landfill.

Refurbished phones are re-used by some business customers or, through third parties, sold in countries where appropriate recycling schemes are also in operation.

We had a successful year: 406,067 redundant handsets were collected through our consumer recycling schemes, an increase of 67 per cent on 2006, or 242,345 phones.

We continue to emphasise the importance of recycling to customers and employees,  encouraging them to involve their friends and families.