Zero energy buildings and recycling

Over the weekend, I enjoyed listening to Forum on Radio 4 in which Bridget Kendall interviewed experts in recycling. I also noticed the announcement that Craig Venter's new Institute (left) has come to fruition in San Diego near UCSD, The Salk Institute and The Scripps Institute, as the draw of Southern California continues. I wonder if you have looked seriously into the sustainability of your business ideas?

The Journalist Adam Minter, who has recently published the book entitled Junkyard Planet, described the recycling route of mobile phones. First they are shipped to China (low labour costs) and they then go direct to Africa where there is a buoyant market pre-owned (we used to call them second hand or used, but this is less market friendly!) phones. If not fit for sale, they are refurbished first and then shipped, or alternatively stripped for parts and finally pulverized for possible recovery of precious metals. The glass is a problem, since it can rarely be recycled successfully. It reminded me of the scene in Blade Runner, where Philip K Dick conjures up images of scavenging and recycling in a sophisticated, but seedy downtown California of the future!

Think about your business ideas in the long term and you may improve the chances of success and investment!