LG tops list of least eco-friendly phones

LG Etna comes bottom of list unveiled to mark the launch of O2’s mobile phone rating scheme.

LG's Etna is the least eco-friendly mobile phone, according to a new environmental rating system launched by O2

The Korean electronics manufacturer has six of the least eco-friendly phones, according to a new rating system launched by O2 that is designed to make it easier for consumers to choose the most environmentally friendly handsets.

The O2 Eco Rating is the UK’s first rating system for mobile phones, and was developed in association with sustainability experts at Forum for the Future.

There are thought to be more than four billion mobile phones in use worldwide, with a lifetime combined carbon footprint of more than 100 million tonnes. According to research carried out by O2, 44 per cent of consumers said that environmental factors had an influence on what mobile phone they chose.

Sony Ericsson’s Elm topped the list of most eco-friendly handsets, achieving a score of 4.3 our of 5, while some Nokias and Sony Ericssons were also rated highly. LG fared less well, making up six of the 10 least eco-friendly handsets, along with the Palm Pre Plus, Samsung C3050, and Sony Ericsson’s Satio.

The score is based on data supplied by handset makers, six of which have signed up to the screen, and looks closely at the environmental impact of each handset, from the raw materials and packaging used to its longevity and energy efficiency, and ease of reuse or recycling.

Handsets also earn extra marks if they can double as cameras or music players, preventing people from needing to buy a separate second device. The ratings also take in to account the ethical performance of the manufacturer, including its labour standards in the supply chain, environmental principles, and support for community programmes.

O2 said that it hoped the new ratings system would help to drive up standards within the mobile phone industry.

“We know that sustainability is important for many of our customers and for the first time they will have the whole picture from which to make a full and balanced purchasing decision,” said Ronan Dunne, chief executive of O2 in the UK.

“Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the social and environmental impact of the technology they buy and we believe this kind of product transparency will help empower them to make greener choices.”

Top 10 most eco-friendly phones

:: Sony Ericsson Elm: Eco rating, 4.3 out of 5 with an Eco rating of 4.3 out of 5

:: Nokia 6700: Eco rating, 4

:: Nokia C7: Eco rating, 4

:: Nokia 1800: Eco rating, 4

:: Samsung GT-S8500: Eco rating, 4

:: Sony Ericsson Zylo: Eco rating, 4

:: Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 mini pro: Eco rating, 4

:: Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 mini: Eco rating, 4

:: Sony Ericsson Vivaz Pro: Eco rating, 3.9

:: Nokia E500: Eco rating, 3.9

Top 10 least eco-friendly phones

:: LG Etna: Eco rating, 2.7

:: Palm Pre Plus: Eco rating, 2.7

:: LG Chocolate: Eco rating, 2.9

:: LG Cookie: Eco rating, 2.9

:: HTC HD2: Eco rating, 2.9

:: LG GT 350: Eco rating, 3.1

:: LG GW300 Etna 2: Eco rating, 3.1

:: Samsung C3050: Eco rating, 3.1

:: LG GT 540: Eco rating, 3.2

:: Sony Ericsson Satio: Eco rating, 3.2

source