Best Phones With Eco-Friendly Materials Reviewed
In today’s world, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a necessity. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, smartphone manufacturers are stepping up by incorporating eco-friendly materials into their designs. From recycled plastics to biodegradable components, these phones aim to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. In this article, we review the best phones with eco-friendly materials in 2025, highlighting their sustainable features, performance, and why they stand out.
Why Choose Phones With Eco-Friendly Materials?
Eco-friendly phones are designed to minimize environmental harm through sustainable sourcing, recyclable materials, and energy-efficient production. By choosing such devices, you contribute to reducing e-waste and carbon footprints. These phones often use:
- Recycled materials: Plastics, metals, and glass repurposed from post-consumer waste.
- Biodegradable components: Materials that break down naturally over time.
- Ethical sourcing: Minerals and materials obtained with minimal environmental and social impact.
- Energy-efficient manufacturing: Processes that reduce carbon emissions.
Let’s dive into our top picks for eco-friendly smartphones in 2025, based on sustainability, performance, and user experience.
1. Fairphone 5
Overview
The Fairphone 5 continues to lead the charge in sustainable smartphones. Designed with modularity in mind, this phone is built to last, reducing the need for frequent upgrades.
Eco-Friendly Features
- Modular design: Easily repairable with replaceable parts like the battery, camera, and screen.
- Recycled materials: Uses 70% fair and recycled materials, including 100% recycled plastic for the back cover.
- Ethical sourcing: Conflict-free minerals and fair labor practices.
- Carbon-neutral production: Offsets emissions through sustainable initiatives.
Performance
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G
- Display: 6.46-inch OLED, 90Hz
- Battery: 4200mAh, removable
- OS: Fairphone OS (Android-based)
The Fairphone 5 offers solid mid-range performance, with a focus on longevity and repairability. Its camera and processing power are adequate for everyday use, making it a practical choice for eco-conscious users.
Why It Stands Out
The Fairphone 5’s modular design and commitment to ethical production make it a pioneer in sustainable tech. It’s ideal for those who value repairability over cutting-edge specs.
2. Google Pixel 9
Overview
Google’s Pixel 9 combines premium performance with a strong emphasis on sustainability, making it a top contender in the eco-friendly smartphone market.
Eco-Friendly Features
- Recycled materials: 100% recycled aluminum in the frame and 35% recycled plastic in other components.
- Energy-efficient display: AMOLED panel with adaptive brightness to save power.
- Sustainable packaging: 100% plastic-free, recyclable packaging.
- Carbon offset program: Google offsets the carbon footprint of each device.
Performance
- Processor: Google Tensor G4
- Display: 6.3-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
- Battery: 4500mAh
- OS: Android 15
The Pixel 9 delivers flagship-level performance with exceptional AI features and a stellar camera. Its eco-friendly credentials make it a guilt-free choice for tech enthusiasts.
Why It Stands Out
With its blend of recycled materials, sustainable packaging, and top-tier performance, the Pixel 9 appeals to users who want both eco-friendliness and premium features.
3. Samsung Galaxy S25 Green Edition
Overview
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Green Edition is a limited-release model designed with sustainability in mind, offering high-end specs alongside eco-friendly innovations.
Eco-Friendly Features
- Recycled materials: 50% recycled plastic and 20% recycled glass.
- Biodegradable coatings: Eco-conscious finishes that reduce chemical waste.
- Energy-efficient production: Manufactured in facilities powered by renewable energy.
- Recyclable packaging: Fully recyclable, plastic-free packaging.
Performance
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
- Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz
- Battery: 4800mAh
- OS: One UI 7 (Android 15)
The Galaxy S25 Green Edition offers top-notch performance, with a vibrant display and long-lasting battery, perfect for power users who care about the environment.
Why It Stands Out
Samsung’s commitment to renewable energy and recycled materials in the S25 Green Edition makes it a standout for eco-conscious consumers seeking flagship performance.
4. Teracube Thrive
Overview
The Teracube Thrive is a lesser-known gem that prioritizes sustainability and affordability, making eco-friendly phones accessible to a wider audience.
Eco-Friendly Features
- Biodegradable body: Made from plant-based bioplastics.
- Repairable design: Replaceable battery and modular components.
- Sustainable packaging: 100% recyclable and plastic-free.
- Long warranty: 4-year warranty to encourage long-term use.
Performance
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 700
- Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, 60Hz
- Battery: 4500mAh, removable
- OS: Android 14
While not a performance powerhouse, the Teracube Thrive is reliable for daily tasks like browsing, messaging, and media consumption.
Why It Stands Out
Its biodegradable materials and extended warranty make the Teracube Thrive a budget-friendly, sustainable option for environmentally conscious users.
5. Apple iPhone 17 (Eco Edition)
Overview
Apple’s iPhone 17 Eco Edition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, combining premium design with eco-friendly materials.
Eco-Friendly Features
- Recycled materials: 100% recycled aluminum enclosure and 25% recycled plastic in internal components.
- Carbon-neutral goal: Apple’s first carbon-neutral iPhone model.
- Recyclable packaging: 100% fiber-based, plastic-free packaging.
- Energy-efficient chip: A19 Bionic chip designed for low power consumption.
Performance
- Processor: A19 Bionic
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR, 120Hz
- Battery: 4000mAh
- OS: iOS 19
The iPhone 17 Eco Edition offers unmatched performance, a stunning display, and Apple’s signature ecosystem integration.
Why It Stands Out
Apple’s push toward carbon neutrality and recycled materials makes the iPhone 17 Eco Edition a premium, eco-friendly choice for iOS fans.
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Phone
When selecting an eco-friendly phone, consider the following:
- Material Sustainability: Look for phones with high percentages of recycled or biodegradable materials.
- Repairability: Modular designs like Fairphone’s make repairs easier, extending the device’s lifespan.
- Performance Needs: Ensure the phone meets your performance requirements for daily use or specific tasks.
- Brand Commitment: Research the manufacturer’s overall sustainability efforts, like carbon offset programs or ethical sourcing.
- Budget: Eco-friendly phones range from budget-friendly (Teracube) to premium (iPhone 17 Eco Edition).
The best phones with eco-friendly materials in 2025 combine sustainability with performance, offering consumers a way to make environmentally responsible choices without sacrificing quality. From the modular Fairphone 5 to the premium iPhone 17 Eco Edition, there’s an eco-friendly phone for every user. By choosing one of these devices, you’re supporting a greener future while enjoying cutting-edge technology.
