Recycle Your Mobile at an EcoATM
Posted October 9th, 2009 by simon
The EcoATM is a rather bizarre idea. They are calling it a self service Automated eCycling Station where you can sell used consumer electronics and mobile phones. You simply insert your portable device or phone (it has to be something small like a digital camera or portable games console) and the machine values it and then pays you. You can get a trade-up coupon, a gift card or make a charitable donation with the proceeds. Retailers who take one on can set up their own promotions and discounts.
The devices are valued in real-time with reference to market prices and naturally there is a profit for the operator. EcoATM are a San Diego based start-up and they placed their first machine in a store in Omaha. A total of 23 phones were thrown into it on the first day of operation and they now plan to roll out a fleet of machines. Apparently it will be able to detect more and more devices over time and it can scan them to determine if they have cracks or scuff marks which affect the value. They will recycle and reuse products wherever possible.
