Standardised mobile phone chargers would promote for efficient use of resources and reduce the amount of potential waste materials, the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association told Radio Australia this week.

AMTA Chief Executive Officer Chris Althaus said the industry welcomed moves – announced earler this year at the GSMA Conference in Barcelona – to co-operate with the production of a universal mobile phone charger.

“Our industry is characterized by innovation, which is driven by a very competitive market. However, on issues of resource efficiency and reducing potential waste the manufacturers and mobile operators have committed to a cross-industry standard for a universal charger for new mobile phones,” he said.

“We believe this will be a significant environmental move by promoting more efficient use of scarce natural resources, more energy-efficient chargers and reducing the amount of material that needs to be recycled. It will also reduce the amount and risk of mobile phone chargers ending up in landfill.”

Mobile manufacturers have set a 2012 target for the universal charging solution to be available worldwide.

Mr Althaus underlined Australia’s commitment to product stewardship through MobileMuster, the official recycling program of the mobile telecommunications industry.

It is the only industry-wide program for electronic waste offering free recycling for all mobile phone brands in Australia. It is believed to be the only such scheme in the world.

More details on how you can recycle you old mobile phone can be found at www.mobilemuster.com.au