We all like an upgrade but we know its not great for the environment. If you really need an upgrade make sure you sell on (or give away your old handset) don't just throw it in the bin. If its still working well try giving it to family or friends first so you know it'll definitely be used. If they don't want it try an online recycling merchant they will often pay for your old handset even if its not working and then sell it on or recycle it.
If you do buy a new handset get a Fairphone. Produced by a pioneering ethical business of the same name the Fairphone uses conflict free minerals and works with manufacturers to ensure employee well-being.
Try and get a smart phone with as many good extra functions as possible. For instance if you buy one with a decent camera built in this means you don't need to spend more money and waste more resources on a separate digital camera. They can also come with a host of other features including MP3 players, e-book readers, calculators and dicta-phones.
All over the world activists are putting technology to the use and organising actions using social media and text messaging through their phones. Why not use your phone to help organise with some local campaign groups?
Plus our product guide tables are all mobile phone friendly so you can use them while your out shopping and campaign at the checkout.
Network providers are all very similar in terms of their ethical rating. Have a look at our rankings table to see which one best fits with your ethics. Use the sliders on the score tables to choose the ethical criteria that matter most to you.