If you live in California, you already know the state leads the nation in environmental action, yet millions of old cell phones, tablets, and handheld electronics still end up in junk drawers or landfills each year. What many Californians don’t realize is that these devices can easily be reused, refurbished, or responsibly recycled, helping reduce e-waste and supporting a more sustainable future.
At Rescue Recycle, we make it simple for anyone in California to safely donate or recycle unwanted electronics through our nationwide mail-in program. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, Sacramento, or a rural community, you can responsibly recycle your devices without leaving your home.
Why Cell Phone Recycling Matters in California
California handles tens of thousands of tons of e-waste annually, showing just how critical responsible recycling is for electronic devices in the state. Much of that waste includes phones and handheld devices that still contain:
- Valuable materials like gold, copper, nickel, and silver
- Reusable parts that can extend the life of other devices
- Hazardous components that should never go into landfills
Recycling or donating your phone not only protects the environment, it also helps reduce the need for new raw materials and keeps harmful chemicals out of California’s soil, water, and air.
A Simple, Mail-In Option for Californians
California has numerous recycling centers, but drop-off programs aren’t always convenient. That’s why Rescue Recycle offers a fast, easy mail-in solution for residents statewide.
Here’s how it works:
- If you’re sending 4 or more devices, we provide a prepaid shipping label for free.
- If you’re sending 1–3 devices, we provide a label (you simply add postage).
- Send us your old devices
We accept smartphones, tablets, handheld gaming devices, smartwatches, and more. - Devices are responsibly recycled or refurbished
A portion of proceeds from refurbished devices is donated to animal welfare organizations, supporting rescue groups nationwide. - Your data is protected
Follow our device preparation guide to make sure your phone is ready for recycling.
If a device arrives locked or we’re unable to remove the account, it is sent directly to our R2-certified recycling partner, where the remaining data is securely destroyed as part of their certified process.
It’s eco-friendly, secure, convenient, and ideal for anyone who prefers not to visit a recycling center.
What Types of Devices Can Californians Send?
We accept most handheld electronics, including:
- Smartphones (iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel, LG, Motorola, etc.)
- Tablets
- Smartwatches and fitness trackers
- Handheld gaming systems
- E-readers
- Cameras
- Flip phones and older models
Whether the device is broken, locked, outdated, or still working, we can responsibly process it.
Why Californians Choose Rescue Recycle
Residents across California use our mail-in program because it offers:
- Convenience – No need to drive to a recycling center
- Security – Clear steps for account removal and data safety
- Sustainability – Devices are reused when possible, not simply shredded
- Impact – A portion of proceeds supports animal rescues and shelters
It’s a simple way to clear out clutter, prevent e-waste, and support a cause that matters.
Give Your Old Electronics a Fresh Start
If you’re in California and you have old cell phones sitting in drawers, this is the perfect time to give them a second life. Recycling your device keeps e-waste out of California landfills, supports sustainability efforts, and helps Rescue Recycle give back to animals in need.
Ready to get started? Visit RescueRecycle.com
Your old device can make a real difference, both for the environment and for animals across the country.