German Environmental Aid and MPs collect old mobile phones

Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH), in collaboration with members of the German Bundestag from various political parties, has initiated a campaign to collect old mobile phones. The drive, running until December 23, 2026, highlights the issue of 167 million unused mobile phones lying dormant in German households.

These obsolete devices contain significant quantities of valuable raw materials, including aluminum, copper, silver, and gold. According to DUH, collected phones will be inspected and, where possible, refurbished for reuse. If a device cannot be repaired, its materials will be recycled by a certified facility, and hazardous substances will be managed environmentally.

The participating members of parliament are collecting devices not only at their Bundestag offices but also at their constituency offices nationwide, providing a convenient drop-off point for citizens. A portion of the proceeds from the collection will support DUH's environmental protection projects in Germany. The campaign addresses the environmental impact of producing new devices, which consumes substantial resources and generates considerable CO2 emissions.

Members of parliament from major parties, including CDU/CSU, SPD, the Green Party, and The Left, have voiced their support. They emphasize the importance of a circular economy for securing raw materials, environmental protection, and reducing dependency on foreign imports. DUH's Federal Managing Director, Barbara Metz, stated that reusing a single smartphone saves 14 kilograms of resources and 58 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions compared to acquiring a new one.

Over a dozen federal parliament members are involved in the collection initiative across their respective constituencies. The campaign serves as a reminder to consumers about the value of old devices and the importance of responsible consumption and e-waste management.