Traci Phillips at Natural Evolution
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Enjoy the perfect mix of natural beauty, big-city fun and small-town charm: explore our great outdoors and distinctive downtowns, discover world-class art and more
HOME
SPRING CLEANING ELECTRONICS RECYCLING IS BIG BUSINESS FOR NATURAL EVOLUTION. BY CASSANDRA SCOTT
R Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Epic Bike Trails
Historic Downtowns
Outdoor Adventures
BELLA VISTA | BENTONVILLE | EUREKA SPRINGS | FAYETTEVILLE HOLIDAY ISLAND | HUNTSVILLE | ROGERS | SILOAM SPRINGS | SPRINGDALE This ad paid for with state and private regional association funds 80
TulsaPeople APRIL 2017
emember that old coffee maker you have shoved away in a closet because you haven’t had the time or the energy to throw it out? Natural Evolution is an electronic equipment recycling company that’s dedicated to providing its services to Tulsa and surrounding areas, making the recycling of electronics easier than ever. Natural Evolution began in the 1980s, when Traci Phillips and her husband, Chris, would dismantle old, automated parking meters to create art. Faced with finding ways to dispose of the old meters, they developed Natural Evolution and officially began business in January 2003. The company is recognized by e-Stewards, a program that certifies companies that follow strict socially and environmentally conscious practices. Natural Evolution seeks to minimize energy consumption through its recycling process while also preventing landfill and environmental pollution by lessening the harmful toxins and chemical agents pulled from recycled equipment. “Since the inception, we have chosen to adhere to strict environmental and social accountability standards,” Phillips says. “This commitment is not something we have taken lightly or that is just talk; our customers know this, and we are grateful for their commitment and their continued support.” Of the 66 e-Stewards-certified companies, Natural Evolution is one of only five that is run by a woman and the only one run by a Native American. Although the processes vary, all equipment is broken down and handsorted before being sent out to other e-Steward processors. Nearly any electronic device can be recycled at Natural Evolution, from computers and printers to toasters and irons. Drop-off is typically free, but some items carry a price to be recycled — like TVs for $20. Natural Evolution can arrange a free pick-up service if more than 100 items need to be recycled. TP Natural Evolution is open for free public drop-offs from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and the third Saturday of the month from 9 a.m.-noon. Natural Evolution is located at 5701 E. 13th St. For a full list of recyclable items, visit naturalevolution.com.