
Resist the upgrade: why holding onto your old phone helps your wallet and the planet
Holding onto an older smartphone can save money and reduce environmental harm: manufacturing new phones uses scarce materials and drives most device emissions, with cobalt mining in Congo linked to harsh working conditions; e-waste remains high and recycling rates are low. By maximizing a device’s life, you cut costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and even enjoy less screen time in daily life, while tech giants remain financially robust even with slower upgrade cycles.













