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3:46 PM
AT&T unveiled requirements for manufacturers of mobile phones to reduce the environmental impact of future handsets. AT&T estimates that the packaging improvements for device chargers, cases, batteries and data cables will help to avoid more than 200 tons of wasted plastic and paper in 2010. According to earth911.com, recycling one ton of plastic saves 7.4 cubic yards of landfill space, and recycling one ton of paper saves more than 3.3 cubic yards of landfill space. So the environmental equivalents of the packaging changes equate to avoiding more than 1,100 cubic yards of landfill space enough to house nearly 10 school buses by the end of 2010. Some of the improvements include using less paper and plastic in the packaging, getting rid of around 60% of the paper used and 30% of the plastic. The new packaging will also use inks that are not petroleum-based. The packages will also be slimmer, which could also save the amount (and size) of boxes used in shipping. Improving the packaging requirements for its accessories will actually save roughly 200 tons of wasted plastic and paper by the end of 2010. Considering we are already well into 2010, that can only mean the numbers in the year 2011 will be even better.
AT&T New Handsets include:
- Reduced packaging for phones, with non-petroleum based inks and recycled materials for in-box user manuals and other pieces of documentation
- 75% of new devices must be at least 65% recyclable.
- Most of the new devices must adhere to the GSMA Universal Charging Solution by 2011. We assume this means most AT&T phones will use the MicroUSB charging port in order to reduce waste from old unused chargers.
- Each new device will comply with the EU mandate for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. Essentially, this will ensure no lead, mercury or other harmful materials are used.
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