Mobile service provider O2 launched the UK’s first environmental phone rating scheme today. The service will examine the carbon footprint of each device over the course of their lifespan.
Joined by sustainability organisation ‘Forum for the Future’, O2 has created a list of at least 65 mobile handsets from six different manufacturers. Each device has been rated based on its overall level of environmental impact. This includes its entire lifespan from collection of raw materials to how easy it is to recycle at the end of its life.
The scheme will also include the functionality of the mobile phone with devices that reduce the need for extra hardware earning extra eco credits. It will also take into account the ethical practices of the manufacturer including labour and safety standards and the firm’s environmental policies.
According to Ronan Dunne, O2’s UK chief executive, the mobile giant realises that sustainability is important to its customers and that they wanted to provide a comprehensive look for those wanting to make a balanced purchasing decision. He added that customers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of various products.
Phones that have already been rated by the service include the Sony Ericsson Elm, which received the highest eco-friendly score – 4.3 out of 5. Seven phones tied for second on the list earning a flat score of 4.0. Of the top ten eco-friendly models, five of them were manufactured by Sony Ericsson.
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