Will Apple's iPhone 5 Launch Benefit E-Waste Recyclers

20 September 2012 The imminent release of the highly anticipated iPhone 5 could lead to an economic boost for e-waste recyclers, according to Green Technology Resources (OTCBB: GTSO). Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) said that it plans to launch the iPhone 5 in nine countries on September 21, and market analysts believe that the device could shift 220,000 per day, totaling more than 6 million units around the globe on launch weekend alone. According to GTSO nearly all of those new phones will replace an older model, many of which will end up in the trash or in the back of a drawer. However, the company said that rare minerals inside these now-obsolete phones still have value, and companies such as GTSO's mining subsidiary, GTSO Resources, are working to capitalise on this growing supply of discarded wealth. Earlier this month, GTSO Resources signed a letter of intent to acquire Global Cell Buyers, an emerging U.S.-based e-waste recycling company, a move that is said could potentially allow it to optimise recovery of lithium, gold, neodymium, rare earths and other valuable materials from unwanted mobile phones. In part due to the rapid obsolescence cycle of smart phones, the global e-waste recycling market is predicted by some analysts to grow to $1.86 billion by 2017. GTSO said that it has plans to capitalise on this potential and is targeting new partnerships and acquisitions that will increase its footprint in the sector. The company also said that it is in talks with a leading e-waste recycler in Latin America, as well. Read More Apple to Build 5 MW Biogas Fuel Cell at Maiden Data Center Apple has filed its plans to build the 5 MW fuel cell project in Maiden, North Carolina, that will utilise biogas to offset its natural gas use and qualify as a renewable facility. Updated WEEE Directive Comes into Force New EU rules governing the collection and treatment of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) have come into force today. Call to Recycle with e-Stewards Following Rescue of 17 Children in India Mobile phone buyback and recycling company, e-Cycle has called on businesses to use e-Stewards-certified companies for their e-cycling efforts in the wake of revelations from New Delhi, India, where 17 young children were recently found to be working in an allegedly hazardous and unsafe facility. Free Magazine Subscription Free Email Newsletter