From today (November 12) O2 will give all the profits it makes from O2 Recycle to its Think Big youth programme, dedicated to supporting young people to make a difference in their communities.

Launched last October the scheme encourages recycling of old handsets in return for cash from O2’s website or going into O2 store.

So far O2 Recycle has paid out more than £10m since launch, UK marketing director at O2, Sally Cowdry, said: “Phone recycling is a fast growing part of the market but it’s getting more and more grubby with some ‘cash for gold’ type operations.”

“We know many customers are looking for an ethical alternative with reassurances that their handsets are being responsibly recycled.

“By sending their old mobiles to O2 Recycle customers can get this reassurance as well as now helping to raise money for young people. What’s more, there is no compromise on the price we pay out for their device.”

Luke Walsh

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