Even though every day is Earth Day at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, we are making this time of year extra special through our continued support for Gorillas on the Line (GOTL), an initiative that encourages conservation action for gorillas, increases public awareness of threats currently facing gorillas, and encourages local audiences to act through cell phone recycling.
So, how does recycling electronic devices help support gorilla conservation?
Smartphones and other electronic devices contain coltan, a mineral compound used to power small electronics. Mining for coltan can contribute to gorilla habitat destruction as well as to military and economic conflict. Recycling small electronic devices reduces the demand for coltan, keeps potentially harmful materials out of our landfills, and raises money for gorilla conservation.
You can take part in supporting gorilla conservation during the Columbus Zoo's upcoming recycling drive, hosted in partnership with Gorillas on the Line. Centered in the middle of our week-long our Earth Day celebrations, this event will take place at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Proceeds from donated devices will be sent to the Gorilla SAFE program, which currently supports the work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and Wildlife Conservation Society in Grauer’s and Cross River gorilla conservation projects. These ongoing projects support gorilla conservation through on-the-ground protection, research, and education.
Accepted devices for this drive include:
- Cell phones
- Smart phones
- Tablets
- Apple/android watches
- GPS
- mp3 players
- E-readers
- Digital cameras
- Handheld gaming systems
- Headphones
- All accessories.
Items NOT accepted: .
- Laptops
When you recycle your electronic devices at the Zoo, be proud and know that you are taking part in making our world greener and safer for precious wildlife species, including gorillas!
Learn more about Earth Day Celebrations Planned at the Columbus Zoo
