Eco-Friendly Phone Cases: How to Choose and Dispose of Them Responsibly
Updated: Feb 17
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Every year, over a billion phone cases are sold worldwide—most of them made from cheap, non-recyclable plastic that eventually ends up in landfills or the ocean. The problem? These cases can take hundreds of years to break down, all for a product we swap out as often as our phones.
But what if your phone case could protect both your device and the planet?
Sustainable phone cases offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic, using biodegradable, compostable, or recycled materials to reduce waste. Whether you're looking for a biodegradable case that naturally breaks down, or one made from recycled ocean plastic, switching to a sustainable phone case is a small change that makes a big impact.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes a phone case truly eco-friendly, the best sustainable brands, and how to choose one that aligns with your values—so you can ditch the plastic guilt and keep your phone protected the green way.
What Makes a Phone Case Sustainable?
Not all eco-friendly phone cases are created equal. Some claim to be sustainable but still contain hidden plastics or use misleading marketing tactics. To make an informed choice, it’s important to understand what truly makes a phone case sustainable.
1. Sustainable Materials
The material of a phone case plays a significant role in its environmental impact. Traditional plastic cases are made from petroleum-based materials that do not break down, contributing to long-term waste. Sustainable phone cases, on the other hand, are crafted from:
Biodegradable and Compostable Materials – These cases are often made from plant-based bioplastics, bamboo fiber, flax shive, or other natural materials. Unlike conventional plastic, they decompose under the right conditions, reducing landfill waste.
Recycled and Upcycled Materials – Some brands use recycled ocean plastic, discarded fishing nets, or repurposed rubber to create durable phone cases. This not only gives waste a second life but also helps clean up plastic pollution.
Natural and Renewable Resources – Bamboo, cork, and wheat straw are renewable materials used in phone cases, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic without sacrificing durability.
2. Ethical and Low-Impact Production
Sustainability extends beyond the materials used—it also involves how a phone case is made. Eco-friendly phone case brands prioritize:
Carbon-Neutral or Low-Energy Manufacturing – Brands committed to sustainability reduce their carbon footprint by using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and cutting emissions during production.
Ethical Sourcing and Fair Labor Practices – Responsible companies ensure that materials are sourced sustainably and that workers are paid fair wages under safe working conditions.
Minimalist or Plastic-Free Packaging – A truly sustainable brand avoids excess packaging and opts for recycled or compostable alternatives instead of single-use plastic.
3. End-of-Life Considerations
A phone case may be made from sustainable materials, but what happens when you no longer need it? The best sustainable phone cases are designed with end-of-life solutions in mind:
Compostability – Fully compostable phone cases break down into natural elements when placed in an industrial or home composting environment. However, it’s important to check whether the case meets certification standards for compostability.
Recyclability – Some cases, especially those made from recycled plastics, can be recycled again to extend their lifecycle. Brands with take-back programs make it easier to ensure proper disposal.
Durability and Longevity – A case that lasts longer reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing overall waste.
Choosing a sustainable phone case isn’t just about protecting your device—it’s about making a conscious decision to reduce your environmental footprint. The next section will highlight the best brands offering eco-friendly phone cases and what sets them apart.
What to Look for When Buying an Eco-Friendly Phone Case
Not all "green" phone cases are created equal. With more brands marketing their products as sustainable, it’s important to know what truly makes a phone case eco-friendly. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase.
1. Sustainable Materials
The material of a phone case determines its environmental impact. Look for options made from:
Biodegradable and Compostable Materials – These break down naturally over time, reducing waste. Common materials include flax straw, wheat straw, bamboo, and plant-based bioplastics. Be sure to check if the case is industrially compostable or home compostable—some require special facilities to break down properly.
Recycled and Upcycled Materials – Cases made from recycled ocean plastic, repurposed rubber, or post-consumer waste help reduce plastic pollution and give materials a second life. These are great if you want a durable case that doesn’t contribute to virgin plastic production.
2. Durability and Protection
An eco-friendly phone case should still do its primary job: protect your phone from drops, scratches, and daily wear and tear. Some biodegradable cases may be thinner and wear out faster, so if durability is a concern, look for brands that balance sustainability with strength. Recycled plastic cases tend to offer better shock absorption while still being a greener choice than traditional plastic.
3. Certifications and Transparency
With greenwashing on the rise, independent certifications help verify a brand’s sustainability claims. Some key certifications to look for include:
B Corp Certification – Ensures the company meets high social and environmental standards.
FSC-Certified Wood – If the case contains wood elements, this certification ensures responsible forestry practices.
Compostability Certification (TÜV Austria, BPI, ASTM D6400/D6868) – Confirms that a biodegradable case will actually break down as claimed.
If a brand doesn’t have certifications, check their transparency—do they clearly state what the case is made of and how it decomposes? If information is vague or missing, it’s a red flag.
4. End-of-Life Disposal
One of the biggest sustainability issues with phone cases is what happens when you're done with them. Before buying, consider:
Compostability – If the case is compostable, does the brand provide clear disposal instructions?
Recycling Programs – Some companies offer take-back programs where you can return your old case for proper recycling.
Reusable or Repairable Options – Some cases are modular, allowing you to replace worn-out parts instead of buying a whole new one.
5. Ethical and Sustainable Business Practices
Beyond the product itself, supporting brands that prioritize ethical labor and sustainable manufacturing makes a difference. Consider:
Carbon-Neutral or Low-Waste Production – Does the brand offset emissions or minimize production waste?
Fair Labor Practices – Are workers paid fair wages and provided with safe working conditions?
Plastic-Free Packaging – A truly eco-friendly phone case should come in compostable or recyclable packaging, not plastic wrap.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing a sustainable phone case means looking beyond just the material—it’s about considering the full lifecycle of the product. By prioritizing biodegradable or recycled materials, durable design, and ethical brands, you can protect both your phone and the planet.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore some of the best sustainable phone case brands that meet these criteria.
Compostable Phone Cases
Pela
Price Range: $25 - $60
Materials: Recycled or compostable materials
Pela is the most well-known company that produces sustainable phone cases. And rightfully so. Pela is the first company ever to come up with a fully compostable phone case. The idea first occurred to Pela’s founder Jeremy Lang when he was playing with his son on a beach in Hawaii and realized how much plastic there is in the water. As a solution, he created Flaxstic, a Pela-exclusive material made from compostable bioplastic elastomer and flax straw materials. When you don’t want your Pela case anymore, you can put it in a compost bin or even in your backyard compost pile. Another alternative is sending it back to Pela, where they use old products to create a new generation of Reborn cases.
Pela offers a wide variety of cases for different phones. They can accommodate iPhone and Samsung users as well as the owners of some Google Pixel and Huawei smartphones. You can choose from several case types such as Slim cases, Classic Engraved, Wallet, or Clear. Besides being very eco-friendly, Pela products are very well-designed too. Pela doesn’t stop with phone cases either. Check out their Accessories section, where they feature their innovative products like Ethos Radiation Reduction or Zero-waste Liquid Screen Protectors. If you’re an owner of AirPods or an Apple Watch, you might like their watch bands or AirPods cases too.
Mmore
Materials: Coffee beans, rose petals, lavender, etc.
Price Range: $20 - $25
Mmore is a Slovenian nature-inspired phone case brand. Its creator Ziga is a former IT specialist who wanted to find a way to be more connected to nature in his day-to-day life. Ziga thought phones and phone cases, in particular, are a great place to start since these are the items they hold all the time.
You wouldn’t find cases like the ones from Mmore anywhere. They started with making wooden cases that you can still get, including personalized ones. But they didn’t stop there. Nowadays Mmore also offers cases made from coffee beans, rose petals, and dried lavender. The reviews are gushing about how surprisingly durable and practical the cases are. While the case frames are made from plastic, they are non-toxic and fully recyclable. You can always send your case back to Mmore to make sure it will be recycled properly and get a 50% discount for another order.
Woodcessories
Materials: Wood
Price Range: $15 - $50
If you’re looking for high-class sustainable phone cases, take a look at Woodcessories. This brand is a great combination of sophisticated design and a sustainable mission. At the moment they have 3 phone case collections: wood, stone, and bio made from agricultural waste. The latter also has an antimicrobial layer that kills 99% percent of germs and bacteria. Woodcessories wooden cases are made with wood from controlled forestry, while the slate they use for their stone products is won in an eco-friendly way. Besides, they are also partnering with Trees for the Future: they plant a tree for every product sold by Woodcessories.
Woodcessories have a wide selection of products for iPhone, Samsung, and Huawei phones, as well as accessories for iPads and MacBooks.
KaeliLeoni
Materials: Bamboo fiber mix
Price Range: $35 - $40
Kaeli Leoni, the designer, had sustainability at the forefront of her mind when designing these eco-friendly phone cases. She believes that it is important to support the environment in any way possible, and one way she does that is by creating eco-friendly cases. Made from a flexible and tough biodegradable bioplastic and bamboo fiber mix, this case is not only durable, but it can also biodegrade in compost within six months. It's also been 5-feet drop tested for shock absorbance and has a raised rim design to protect the screen. The slimline cover is smooth yet nonslip, providing a strong grip and a natural look and feel. Additionally, all cases are printed with water-based inks and are free from environmentally damaging phthalates, BPA, and cadmium. Not only is this phone case beautiful and functional, but it is also Certified FDA safety compliant, making it a responsible choice for both you and the environment.
NaturallyNadege
Materials: Wheat Straw
Price Range: $15 - $20
NaturallyNadege produces eco-friendly phone cases that are biodegradable, vegan, and compostable. Made from wheat straw biodegradable material, this case is part of an expanding range of sustainable options for your phone.
Not only is their case good for the environment, but it's also durable and sturdy. It is sturdy enough that they send it out in a brown paper envelope without any wasteful or unnecessary packaging, and even the tape used for the postage label is biodegradable paper tape.
Biodegradable Phone Cases
Salavisa
Materials: Plant Polymers
Price Range: $30 - $35
Are you looking for a phone case that not only protects your device but also makes a statement? Look no further than these Beautiful Aesthetic Biodegradable phone cases for the latest models. Their cases are not only eco-friendly but also visually striking, making sure that you stand out from the crowd.
Our cases come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that you can enjoy the aesthetic and protection for as long as you own your phone. And with production and shipping from the USA, the UK, Italy, South Korea, and Australia, you can trust the quality and durability of these cases.
But what truly sets these cases apart is the option for personalization. They understand that everyone has their unique style and preferences, which is why they offer the option to replace the brand with your name, monogram, or even someone else's name. Alternatively, you can choose to have no brand at all. They believe that custom products provide a better experience for their customers.
Wilma
Materials: Plant Fibers
Price Range: $30 - $40
At Wilma, they believe in protecting both your phone and the planet. That's why they are proud to offer a range of eco-friendly phone cases made from 100% biodegradable materials. Their products are free from any harmful ingredients and will naturally degrade without leaving any residue. Not only are these cases environmentally friendly, but they are also certified as biodegradable according to European standards.
Their Wilma iPhone cases also boast bold designs that blend fashion and sustainability. They also ensure that the packaging is eco-friendly, using recycled cardboard and soy-based colors for ink. And when it comes to protection, Wilma cases offer the same level of drop and scratch protection and natural shock absorption as plastic alternatives, without compromising on the environment.
BioPlastic Phone Cases
Meant to be Design
Materials: BioPlastic
Price Range: $25 - $30
Looking for a phone cover that not only looks great but also offers unbeatable protection for your device? Look no further than this 5-feet drop-tested eco case. Designed to withstand even the most accidental of drops, this cover features a raised rim to keep your screen safe, as well as shock-absorbent technology for added peace of mind. But that's not all - the scratch-resistant and slimline design ensure that your phone looks as good as new, even after months of use. The cover also provides a strong grip and a natural look and feel. Not only that, but it's also environmentally friendly, printed using water-based inks, free of phthalates, BPA, and cadmium, and will biodegrade fully in the compost after six months. Plus, it's certified FDA safety compliant, so you can trust its quality.
CWAShop
Materials: BioPlastic made from wheat
Price Range: $15 - $30
CWAShop combines protection and minimalism. Their case is designed to be screen protector friendly, with a shock-absorbing raised bumper and corners that provide 8-foot drop protection and scratch resistance.
This minimalist design of their cases is not just for decoration, it's a statement. The transparent back and frosted bumper give your phone a sleek and slim look, while the pocket-friendly design makes it easy to carry around. Made with 100% bioplastics and buttons with 50% recycled content, this case is not only good for the environment but also premium quality.
Recycled Materials Phone Cases
Casely
Materials: Recycled Plastic
Price Range: $ 25 - $ 40
If you want something distinctive yet not overly bold, take a look at this striking Day and Night Colorblock Case from Casely. Its uncomplicated patterns and harmonizing colors are an ideal choice for those seeking a unique touch. Designed for admirers of both radiant sunrises and tranquil moonlit nights, this case captures both in its earthy tones and serene colors. Crafted to snugly fit most iPhone and Samsung models available, this adorable case doubles as a subtle and classy expression of your style while providing extra protection against scratches and bumps for your device. Grab this case today to infuse a pastel-colored charm into your most cherished possession! Plus, all these cases are made from 50% recycled TPU materials and packaged in FSC-certified biodegradable and compostable materials.
Inbeage
Materials: Recycled Plastic, Plant Fibers
Price Range: $13 - $25
Are you looking for a way to reduce your plastic waste and make a positive impact on the earth? Look no further than these plant-based phone cases. Made from biopolymers derived from plants (except for the recycled plastic fabric), this case is sustainable, zero-waste, and completely non-toxic.
Their Earth Conscious Case is not only better for the environment but also offers a unique and stylish look. With a lower carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emission than traditional plastic, their cases are 100% vegan and can be disposed of in an industrial compost facility or backyard compost pit, breaking down into carbon dioxide and water in just one year with no toxic residue. And with recyclable packaging, you can feel good about your purchase from start to finish.
LifeProof
Materials: Recycled Ocean Plastic
Price Range: $12 - $20
LifeProof provides you with the ultimate combination of style and protection. This case is designed to survive drops from 6 feet, ensuring that your phone is safe and secure at all times.
But LifeProof is more than just a protective case, it's a revolution in case construction. Made from over 85% ocean-based recycled plastic, this case not only looks great but also makes a positive impact on the environment. Its solid and thin one-piece design is precision made for your phone and features a unique mellow wave pattern that adds a touch of elegance.
This ultra-slim, pocket-friendly case also has raised screen bumpers that help protect the touchscreen. It's the perfect case for your phone if you want to protect your phone while also making a statement.
How to Properly Dispose of Your Sustainable Phone Case
So, you’ve made the switch to a sustainable phone case—but what happens when it’s time to replace it? Even eco-friendly products need to be disposed of correctly to ensure they don’t end up contributing to waste. Here’s what you need to know about responsibly getting rid of your biodegradable phone case or one made from recycled materials.
1. Check If Your Case Is Truly Compostable
If your phone case is labeled compostable, that means it’s designed to break down into natural elements under the right conditions. However, not all compostable phone cases are the same.
Home Compostable: Some brands, like Pela, make cases that can be composted in a backyard compost bin. These cases typically break down in a matter of months.
Industrial Composting Required: Other cases need higher temperatures and controlled conditions to break down fully. If your case requires industrial composting, check if your local facility accepts bioplastics.
Before composting, always read the manufacturer’s disposal instructions to ensure you’re following the right process.
2. Recycle If Possible
Not all eco-friendly phone cases are compostable—some are made from recycled ocean plastic, plant-based bioplastics, or upcycled materials like cork or wood. If your case falls into this category, recycling is often the best disposal option.
Look for Take-Back Programs: Some companies, like Nimble, offer recycling programs where you can send back your old case to be properly processed.
Check Local Recycling Rules: If your case is made from single-source recycled plastic, it may be accepted by your municipal recycling program. However, mixed-material cases (e.g., plastic with rubber grips) can be harder to recycle.
Electronic Retailers: Some e-waste recycling programs accept phone cases, especially those made from silicone or hard plastics.
If in doubt, contact the manufacturer to ask about recycling options.
3. Repurpose Instead of Tossing
Before throwing your case away, consider creative ways to upcycle it. A durable phone case can be reused in ways you might not have considered:
Use it as a soap dish or small tray for jewelry and keys.
Cut it into coasters or a protective grip for tools.
Donate it if it’s still in good condition—some organizations accept second-hand tech accessories for reuse.
4. Avoid Landfill Waste Whenever Possible
Even biodegradable phone cases won’t break down properly in landfills due to the lack of oxygen and microorganisms needed for decomposition. If composting or recycling isn’t an option, consider upcycling or donating before throwing your case away.
By choosing a compostable or recyclable phone case and disposing of it responsibly, you’re ensuring your sustainable choice stays eco-friendly until the very end. Small actions like these help reduce plastic waste and promote a circular economy, where products are designed with their entire lifecycle in mind.
Conclusion: A Small Swap With a Big Impact
Every choice we make—right down to the phone case we use—shapes the future of our planet. Traditional plastic phone cases contribute to pollution and waste, but sustainable phone cases offer a better alternative. By choosing a case made from biodegradable, compostable, or recycled materials, you’re not just protecting your phone—you’re reducing your environmental footprint.
We’ve covered what makes a phone case truly eco-friendly, the best ways to properly dispose of your case, and what to look for when making a purchase. Whether you opt for a compostable phone case that naturally breaks down or a recycled case that gives plastic a second life, your choice matters.
Now, it’s your turn. Ready to make the switch? Explore sustainable phone case brands, find one that aligns with your values, and take a step toward a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Small changes add up—starting with something as simple as the case in your pocket.
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