Gorillas on the Line
Answer the Call!
Did you know your old cell phone
could help save gorillas?
Gorillas on the Line is a global conservation campaign that empowers individuals, schools, and communities to protect endangered gorillas — simply by recycling cell phones and small electronics. Every device makes a difference. Every voice drives change. Together, we are Creating a Better World for Animals.
Why It Matters
Cellphones and other electronics contain a mineral called coltan, which is mined in regions where gorillas live. This mining leads to deforestation, habitat loss, and increased poaching risks for gorillas and other wildlife.
By recycling your used devices, we can reduce the demand for new mining, protect critical habitat, and directly support conservation.
How You Can Help
Support the Zoo year-round
📱 Recycle Your Old Phones
Drop off your old or broken cell phones and small electronics at bins located throughout the Zoo.
📣 Spread the Word
Tell your friends, family, and coworkers! Every device adds up — and so does your impact.
🌍 Make a Global Difference
Recycled devices are processed through our partner, Eco-Cell, and proceeds go directly toward protecting gorillas and their habitats in Africa.
The following devices are not accepted: desktop computers, monitors, laptops, game consoles, televisions, calculators
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What devices can I recycle?
Our recycling partner, Eco-cell, accepts cell phones, smart phones, iPads, iPods, tablets, smart watches, adapters, chargers, mp3 players, handheld gaming systems, and related accessories such as charging cords and headphones.
I have an old laptop that no longer works, can I recycle that as part of the Gorillas on the Line campaign?
Large electronic devices such as desktop computers, monitors, laptops, game consoles, televisions, and calculators are NOT accepted for the Gorillas on the Line campaign. However, these electronics also contain coltan, and we highly recommend you recycle them properly. Many electronic stores like Apple, Best Buy, and Staples, are often able to accept them for recycling. Call your local store to find out more.
What condition do my devices have to be in to be accepted for recycling?
Devices can be in any condition. From the old, heavy phones to ones with a cracked screen that no longer work, we’ll recycle them all!
What should I do with my devices before recycling them?
Before recycling your devices, we suggest backing up your devices and saving any data you might want to keep (contacts, photos, etc.), resetting the device to factory settings, and removing the case and/or screen protector.