Recycled Handset Units Expected to Reach 100 Million in 2012

In some cases, there’s money on recycling. In fact, a new study by ABI Research has revealed that shipments of old cellphones recycled for reuse (recycled handsets) are estimated to reach more than 100 million units in 2012. Moreover, this market is expected to steadily grow and generate revenues of more than $3 billion in 2012.

There are several factors driving this growing trend. These include the growing demand of cheaper cellphones in new markets, green revolution, shorter product life cycle due to competition, and rising consumer awareness.

However, the key problem faced by many recycling companies now is how to retrieve these cellphones at very affordable prices. It seems most consumers have a hard time letting go of their once precious possession that they tend to charge higher prices. Failure to get lower cost will make it difficult for them to resell these mobile phones.

What makes this campaign successful is the support of handset manufacturers including Nokia, Sony Ericsson, LG, and Samsung. Now, these companies ensure their products are recyclable and do not contain harmful substances.