Orlando Science Center is thrilled to announce “Phone it Forward,” a charity campaign that helps protect all life here on Earth while providing for those in need. It’s clear that without proper e-waste management, Earth’s ecosystems and human health are at great risk.  

Orlando Science Center is passionate for protecting all life on Earth, so starting May 8th visitors are invited to donate any working or broken electronic devices at OSC to help those in need and keep landfills free of e-waste.  

Those who donate accepted devices will also receive 10% off a new membership. 

Accepted devices include: 

• • Cellphones 
  • Laptops 
  • Tablets 
  • External Drives 
  • SD/USB Drives 
  • Smart Watches 
  • IPod/MP3 Players 
  • Game Controllers 
  • E-Readers 
  • Chargers/Cables 
  • Earbuds/Airpods

Through these efforts, you and Orlando Science Center can together help combat the dangers of E-waste, which put wildlife, ecosystems and human health in danger.  

When electronic devices are not properly disposed of, the metals in them become exposed to saltwater, which causes the items to leach metals like lead and mercury into the water. Unfortunately, fish and other aquatic species that live in the contaminated water absorb these harmful metals. 

As larger predators and even humans consume these fish, it can have long-term and often irreversible damage to Earth’s ecosystems and human health. Many electronics also use flame retardants. When marine animals are exposed to such harmful chemicals, there’re disruptions in their hormone systems that cause a population decline.

Not only does improper e-waste impact the lives of Earth’s species, but so does mining minerals to produce electronics. For example, many animals like Chinchillas are facing habitat loss and disruption due to mining. So, how can this be solved? The answer is through recycling electronics so that the minerals can be reused, reducing the need to mine for new ones. 

Inside the Life exhibit and Conservation Hallway on Level 1 of the Science Center, guests can learn more about the many ways they can contribute to a happier and healthier planet Earth. Start today by donating to Phone it Forward! Guests can speak with a member of the Life team regarding where to drop off their damaged or used electronic devices.