The Fairphone was shown off as a prototype over a year ago, and now is finally going on sale in the UK.
Touted as the first ethical smartphone, the Fairphone will be stocked exclusively in The Phone Co-op, the UK's only consumer-owned mobile phone operator, Business Green reports.
"We are delighted that our partnership with Fairphone means we are able to build on our reputation as the leading ethical provider of telecoms, by supplying what must be the most ethical mobile handset on the market," Vivian Woodell, chief executive of the Phone Co-op, said in a statement.
"Fairphone's initiative raises awareness of important issues about the supply chain for products we use every day. This partnership brings together two of Europe's most radical and dynamic social enterprises, organisations with shared values, to make a difference in our industry."
The Fairphone is the first handset made without 'conflict materials' – i.e. those sourced from conflict zones. The tin and tantalum in the device is sourced through the Conflict Free Tin Initiative and the Solutions for Hope sustainable supply chain initiatives.
Unlike other manufacturers' handsets, it's not made in a factory with lax labour, safety and environmental standards. Indeed, workers have an innovative contract that puts money back into the local community. They get to decide which initiatives they support.
You can swap out the battery, use a standard micro-USB charger, and put in two SIM cards in a bid to reduce waste.
It will be available on plans starting at £22 a month through Co-operative Mobile, or £21.50 (excluding VAT) from Co-operative Business Telecoms.
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