With e-waste being identified as the fastest growing waste stream in the world, the O2 scheme allows anyone – regardless of their mobile operator – to trade in their devices in return for cash.
Since its launch in 2009, the scheme has seen just under four million devices recycled and almost £347 million paid out to customers.
Smartphones, tablets, wearables, earbuds, MacBooks and consoles can all be sent to O2 using free postage to be repaired, refurbished and resold or recycled – with zero parts going to landfill.
On average, O2 Recycle pays out:
- £80.16 for consoles
- £53.52 for earbuds
- £205.17 for laptops or MacBooks
- £136.46 for smartphones
- £144.52 for tablets
- £81.36 for wearables/smartwatches
O2 said that the average UK household has four unused devices which could earn them approximately £450.
Chief communications and corporate affairs officer at Virgin Media O2, Nicola Green, said: “Brits are sitting on a treasure trove of unused tech worth almost £450 which could earn them much needed extra cash in time for Christmas while also reducing e-waste.
“With our O2 Recycle service, anyone can send in their unwanted devices – from phones to laptops and consoles – and boost their festive finances. Meanwhile their old tech can be given a second life or recycled – with zero parts going to landfill.”
To mark International E-Waste Day, Virgin Media O2 has made Disney Pixar film WALL-E available to watch for all Virgin TV customers via Channel 100. It hopes the initiative will encourage families to talk about the importance of recycling.
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