A Swiss adventurer and pioneer, who is currently travelling the world in a solar-powered vehicle, has pledged his support to EnviroFone, the UAE-based mobile phone recycling initiative.

Louis Palmer arrived in Dubai last week and was enlightened to learn about the environmental campaign launched in June 2007, especially given his concerns about protecting the planet and energy.

“As I travel around the world in my solar-powered vehicle, it is extremely welcoming to hear about this initiative in the UAE,” said Palmer. 

“It seems to be a very easy way to help protect the environment.  Mobile phones are becoming more and more disposable and ensuring that your old or broken phone is recycled properly should be part and parcel of replacing a handset.

“I have made it my life’s ambition to find environmentally friendly solutions to the energy crisis we face and to increase awareness about overcoming global warming and protecting our environment. 

“I am greatly encouraged to learn that a country like the UAE, which is growing at such a fast rate and hosts an ever changing skyline, is tackling issues of the environment,” he added.

More than 80,000 unused mobiles have been collected since mid-June when EnviroFone launched the campaign to protect the environment from contaminated and harmful toxins found in phones and accessories.

It is estimated that up to ten million old, broken and unused mobile phones are hidden away in drawers when they could be recycled.  If these phones are carelessly discarded, they can leak toxins into the ground which spread disease.  Elements such as beryllium, cadmium, lithium, mercury, silver and even gold are contained in a single mobile phone.

Louis Palmer has embarked on a 12 month journey covering 50,000 km to 50 countries over five continents. He travels from Dubai to Lahore in India before taking in Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Beijing and Tokyo.  Palmer built the car himself and his mission is to prove that solar energy is a viable alternative to petrol.

Stuart Fleming, managing director of EnviroFone, said: “Louis’ adventure around the world is an inspiring story.  His steadfast determination to provide a solid argument for the use of solar energy is commendable.  He, like EnviroFone, is genuinely trying to make a difference and protect our planet.  I thank him for his support of our campaign and wish him every success on his onward journey.”

EnviroFone encourages people in the UAE to deposit their unwanted mobile phones in drop boxes, located throughout the country. 

More than 270 boxes are located at ENOC petrol stations in Dubai, all Adnoc petrol stations in Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates, Etisalat and du business centres, Al Rostamani currency exchange houses, Spinneys supermarkets, Magrudy’s Book Stores, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre Mall, Sharjah City Centre Mall, Ajman City Centre Mall, Lamcy Plaza in Dubai and FedEx locations in the UAE. TradeArabia News Service