Given the plethora of choices for mobile phones, tech-savvy consumers often love to upgrade to the latest on the market. So what should be done about the old pieces that might uselessly occupy the shelf? Well, recycling your old phone will not only fetch reasonable money, but is an environment friendly option as well.

The BBC reports that a mobile phone trading website called FoneBank recently conducted a survey in the UK to find out the fate of old mobile phones. It was discovered that 28% of them simply put them away in a drawer, and 23% simply chucked them away. With the global recession setting in, consumers could easily opt for many of these second hand gadgets that are otherwise wasted away. And for those who still want to delve deeper into their pockets to upgrade to higher end phones, reselling old phones can fetch some money.

Particularly benefited from second hand phones are consumers living in developing countries. FoneBank, for its part has been recycling thousands of phones in recent months in regions like Africa, South Asia and South-East Asia.

The need for recycling old phones also arises from the concern for the environment. Toxic substances like cadmium found in their batteries can contaminate the water table. Manufacturers, importers and retailers of electronic devices often allow for the resale of old phones.

So before you decide to upgrade to a brand new handheld gadget, don’t forget about your old one!