Ontario residents can now sustainably dispose of their used cellphones in exchange for cashback following ecoATM’s new partnership with Walmart.
The company, a global leader in electronics recycling and sustainable technology solutions, is financially incentivizing phone recycling for those upgrading from older devices.
“We are committed to driving the re-commerce revolution by making it easier than ever for people to embrace sustainability,” said ecoATM chief executive officer Matt Furlong. “Our mission is to empower consumers to give their old devices a second life while benefiting financially.”
So far, ecoATM’s expansion into the Canadian market includes a combined total of 13 kiosks within select Walmart stores in Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, and Burlington.
The company has already seen success with its 6,500 kiosks across the United States, collecting over 50 million devices to date. This has diverted more than 25 million pounds of e-waste from landfills, according to their Monday, Sept. 15 news release.
“By refurbishing used electronics and keeping them out of landfills, we create a model that works for both people and the planet,” said Furlong. “Launching in Canada marks an exciting step forward as we expand access to our innovative kiosks, helping communities across the GTA contribute to a more sustainable future, one device at a time.”
The award-winning technology has simplified the process of recycling unwanted devices for financial benefit. Users simply place their phones in the kiosk, where they undergo an automated evaluation and ID verification.
“ecoATM does verify for stolen phones through a partnership with law enforcement,” said ecoATM media representative Ashley McFarlane in a statement to the Star. “There are also cameras located on each kiosk.”
Once a kiosk user passes the security check and accepts a proposed quote, they will receive instant cashback.
“Our goal is to ensure that the process of turning in your old phone for instant cash is as hassle-free as possible,” Furlong said. “It’s a technology-friendly way to get rewarded while contributing to a more circular economy.”
There are 50 million metric tons of e-waste generated globally every year. With the expansion into Canada, ecoATM is accelerating its mission to nurture a more eco-friendly environment.
Although the kiosks operating in the United States accept a variety of devices, the company’s introduction to the Canadian market is currently set up solely for cell phones.
