Calls for a new recycling programme were answered with the collection of more than 1,000 cellular phones.

Dolphin Quest Bermuda has formed a network of community recycling partners.

"Typically, these items would either be burned in the incinerator or placed in the dump by the Airport," Dolphin Quest's senior education specialist Robyn Bungay said.

"By collecting them before they get to these end destinations, we are not only reducing the amount of trash we put back into our environment ? some of it harmful ? but we are also providing materials to create goods that we use daily, thus cutting down on our consumption of raw materials."

Karlos Burch of the Devon Springs recycling centre said ten percent of the community participates in recycling, which was average for a voluntary recycling effort.

So far this year Dolphin Quest has collected 1,141 cellular phones, 125 cellular phone batteries, 62 toner cartridges and 15 ink jet cartridges.

All of the items are carried off the Island in suitcases by Dolphin Quest employees who are visiting the US.

When the items reach American recycling companies they are broken down into reusable metal and plastic components.

Local companies who assisted in the programme include Marsh and Max Re, CellularOne and AudioVisual Electronics.

Old crayons and plastic six-pack rings are also collected and reused.

Those who wish to join the recycling network may telephone 234-4464, extension 14.