Our operations generate waste – from our networks, our offices, retail stores and call centres. Customers' old mobile phones also become waste when they are replaced. We are committed to reducing, reusing and recycling where possible.
- Network waste: Our network creates waste, as we need to upgrade and replace equipment as technology advances. We resell equipment that can be reused, or send it to specialist companies for recycling. See network waste.
- Used handsets: 16 of the 17 operating companies covered in this report have handset recycling programmes in place and encourage customers to return their old phones for reuse or recycling. Our newly acquired operation in Turkey is now establishing a similar process.
- Other waste: The main types of waste produced by our offices, call centres and retail outlets are paper, printer toner cartridges, packaging materials and IT equipment. See waste.
See our performance on recycling in 2007/08.
We do not manufacture mobile phones or network equipment but we encourage suppliers to design handsets that are easier to recycle and made from environmentally preferable materials. We have taken steps to ensure our compliance with European legislation on electronic waste.