Australians have handed in a record 2,590 mobile phones for recycling through MobileMuster, creating a World Record for the largest number of mobile phones handed in for recycling in one country in one hour.

The Guinness World Record attempt took place simultaneously on Saturday 31 May across five capital cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. The event was part of MobileMuster and Landcare Australia's “Old Phones, More Trees” campaign, where a native tree will be planted for every mobile handed in for recycling during the month of May.

Adelaide residents are the country’s top mobile phone recyclers, handing in 688 mobile phones for recycling. Brisbane and Sydney followed closely, handing in 687 and 460 mobile phones respectively. Perth and Melbourne also contributed a record number, handing in 416 and 339 mobile phones for recycling.

Rose Read, Manager of Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association’s (AMTA) recycling program, MobileMuster, congratulated everyone who helped create the World Record.

“It is fantastic to see Australians across the country helping towards a greener future. This will mean 2,590 native trees will be planted in degraded areas across the country,” she said.

“In addition, MobileMuster can recover over 90 per cent of the metals and plastics found in mobiles so they can be turned into jewellery, plastic fence posts and stainless steel.”

Brian Scarsbrick, Chief Executive of Landcare Australia, said they are delighted to partner with MobileMuster for a successful second year.

“Planting of native trees in degraded areas as a result of the ‘Old Phones, More Trees’ campaign will provide a multitude of environmental benefits. This will range from habitat enhancement, dune stabilization, sustainability of indigenous plant species, reduce erosion and increase biodiversity. The World Record event was a win-win for all involved,” he said.

Those who were unable to be part of the World Record attempt can still recycle their old mobiles, batteries, chargers and accessories at any one of MobileMuster’s 3,000 drop-off points across the country, or by picking up a free recycling satchel from participating Australia Post outlets.

Courtesy: Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association

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Posted by Naresh Koshti on 20 June, 2008 3:00:50 PM IST #