The Rise of Sustainable Phone Cases
When you own a mobile device, phone cases and screen protectors are a necessity. We have all ​felt the panic of ​dropp​ing ​​ed, bumped or damaged ​our phones at some point and that​ feeling of dread, as well as dealing with the aftermath of a damaged phone,​ ​​easily be avoided with a protective phone case.
It’s no secret that most phone cases on the market are made of plastic; quite frankly, it's the very thing that makes them so durable. However, the ever-growing demand for a greener future has caused eco-conscious consumers to rethink how they protect their phones. That's why OtterBox has committed to creating more innovative and sustainable solutions designed to align with those greener values— without compromising style or functionality.
What to Look for in Sustainable Phone Cases
Did you know that eco-friendly phone cases can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste in landfills? Plastics are one of the primary materials used because of ​their​​​ durability, but because they take many years, ​sometimes hundreds​​​, ​to break down​,​ and may leave behind microplastics, the impact plastic materials have on the planet can be damaging.
A high demand for phone cases causes a continuous need for manufacturing new plastic, which results in more carbon emissions, contributing to climate change. To combat this, OtterBox has incorporated recycled plastics into many of our products, and over 11 series are currently certified with the UL Environmental Claim Validation​.​​ ​T​​hese products have been evaluated by an objective third-party and independently validated to contain recycled content.
And it doesn’t stop at phone cases. We’re also removing plastics from our retail packaging and shipping boxes — making our current lineup of paperboard packaging completely curbside-bin recyclable. By choosing phone cases and packaging made from sustainable, eco-friendly recycled materials, you​ can​ play a role in reducing your carbon footprint.
What Are Recycled Phone Cases Made From?
Traditional phone cases are made from non-biodegradable materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, polyurethane and silicone. Although these materials provide durability to our phones, they don’t decompose naturally, leading to persistent landfill pollutants. There is a better option - eco-friendly phone cases made from recycled, natural or paper-based materials.
- Recycled Cases: Recycled materials such as plastic or rubber can be used to reduce the​ environmental​ impact of phone cases, increase circularity and can reduce waste in landfills and energy consumption during production. Some manufacturers use recycled ocean-based plastics, which not only reduces plastic waste but also raises awareness about the plastic pollution issue in our oceans.
- Natural Cases: Phone cases made from natural materials can offer sustainable substitutes to traditional plastic and can reduce plastic consumption and waste while still offering durable, stylish​,​ and sustainable phone cases. Our new Symmetry Series Cactus Leather phone case exemplifies how we at OtterBox incorporate natural materials to create the same durable products, while reducing the amount of plastic​ used to produce them
The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Phone Cases
The demand for more environmentally friendly phone cases has been growing in recent years and for good reasons. Purchasing eco-friendly phone cases provides many benefits, ​not only for the environment, but also for the individuals purchasing them:
1. Environmentally sustainable: Eco-friendly phone cases are made to reduce the impact on the environment, and this process begins with an intentional focus on what materials to use that reduce plastics in the environment and incorporate regenerative sources, such as cactus. The use of sustainable materials that are environmentally friendly yet strong enough to protect your device is an innovative science.
2. Health benefits: Sustainable phone cases are usually made from natural/non-toxic materials, which makes​ them a safer option for your overall health.
3. Durability and longevity: Despite their fragile appearance, eco-friendly phone cases are often very durable. High-quality, sustainable phone cases can withstand drops just as well as traditional phone cases.
OtterBox Sustainable Products
OtterBox has combined its legendary protection with a greener vision to create two of our most innovative series for environmentally conscious consumers worldwide. These series are designed with our unwavering commitment to the future of sustainability without compromising on style or performance.
- Core Series offers a wide variety of options and colors, protecting AirPods, AirTags and iPhones while using recycled materials. This not only protects your device but also helps to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
- Introducing our latest innovation — the Symmetry Series Cactus Leather phone case. We combined the luxurious look of our cactus leather with the reliable protection of OtterBox technology. This case is made from a resilient cactus leather alternative, designed to withstand drops, wear, scuffs and stains. Don't let its stylish appearance fool you — the Symmetry Series Cactus Leather case boasts a 3X MIL-STD drop protection rating.
Choose OtterBox and join the global movement towards a greener future.