What You Can Do

Fun Facts

By 2015, ABI Research says there will be approximately 212 million smart meter systems and smart grid projects installed worldwide.

Recycling Wireless Devices

The U.S. wireless industry recognizes its role to help preserve the planet, which is many of CTIA's members have developed or supported numerous sustainable initiatives such as programs promoting the recycling of cellphones and other wireless devices. Whether it's directly from a carrier, manufacturer or a third party organization, consumers have a variety of options to recycle their "old" devices and accessories.

We encourage you to erase your personal information from your device before you recycle it. Here are four simple tips to safely remove your information:

Preserve the contacts, photos, texts or other data you want to keep.
Terminate your device's wireless service by contacting your provider.
Use device-specific instructions to clear the device's memory of stored information.
Remove the SIM card (found in some GSM or 4G devices). If you're unsure if your device has one, contact your provider for more information.

Now that your personal information has been safely removed from your device, who you donate to is your decision. There are a variety of options from carrier- and manufacturer-sponsored initiatives to third party organizations, such as drop-off or mail back programs, websites and charity drives. If you're not sure where to recycle your wireless devices, such as cellphones or smartphones, all major carriers and many others will accept any device or accessory at their stores, regardless of which carrier provided your service.

Here is a list of our members' consumer recycling programs:

Alaska Communications