THE RECYCLING PROCESS

The 6 steps of recycling

Curious about how we turn old mobiles into new possibilities? Here's an insight into our recycler TES-AMM's process. As well as being highly efficient, this process provides a complete breakdown of chemical compounds. That means it prevents potentially damaging chemical compounds (such as dioxins and furans) from reforming and threatening the environment.

Step 1: Sorting

First, phones are dismantled and sorted into the following components: batteries (NiCad, NiMetHyd, Lithium Ion), printed circuit boards, handsets, chargers/accessories, plastics, metals and paper/cardboard packaging.

Step 2: Batteries

Batteries are sorted, then shipped to approved recyclers in other countries. Where they are sent depends on battery type - currently, lithium ion batteries are shipped to TES-AMM in Singapore where they're processed for cobalt and lithium.  Nickel cadmium (NiCad) and nickel metal hydride (NiMetHyd) batteries are shipped to KOBAR Ltd in South Korea where they are processed for nickel (to make stainless steel), cadmium (to make new batteries) and copper. 

Step 3: Circuits

Circuit boards are stored and then shipped to TES-AMM in Singapore where they are processed for precious metals including gold, silver, copper and lead.

Step 4: Casings

Handset casings are sent to local plastics manufacturer Australian Composite Technology, who shreds and uses the plastic to produce composite plastic fence posts.

Step 5: Accessories

Accessories are processed by TES-AMM in Singapore. Here, they are shredded and separated from the ferrous and non-ferrous metals for re-use. 

Step 6: Packaging

Packaging is separated into plastic and paper and sent to local recyclers for processing.