FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Sunday, February 13, 2005

Biodegradable Cell Phones

The last thing the world needs are more useless, outdated cell phones. But with the average cell phone user upgrading his or her model every 18 months, unwanted cell phones are beginning to cause a waste management problem. It seems that we'll be flooded with the things.

Or will we? Researchers at the University of Warwick in the UK have developed a new type of polymer cell phone casing that will break down into compost when discarded. In fact, their prototype can even contain a seed of the flower of your choice! So someday soon, instead of throwing your old phone in the trash, perhaps you'll simply plant it in your back yard and be rewarded with a lovely flower.

Sources: University of Warwick, World Future Society