We all want to protect our phones from the inevitable drops, scratches, and bumps of everyday life, but what if your phone case could protect more than just your device? The best eco-friendly phone cases offer a great blend of durability and sustainability, helping to reduce plastic waste and improve the planet.
Made from natural materials like biodegradable plastics, recycled ocean waste or even sustainable bamboo, eco-friendly and compostable phone cases prove that you don't have to sacrifice style or protection to go green. They're designed to protect your device while actively fighting plastic pollution, making them a win-win for you and Mother Earth.
Whether you're looking for something sleek and minimal or bold and artistic, there's an eco-friendly option out there to suit your style. Instead of a standard plastic case, you can choose one that is both practical and planet-friendly.
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iPhone compatible: Yes | Material: Flax shavings, biopolymers
Without a doubt, our favorite eco-friendly, sustainable phone cases are the ones made by For. We love their colors and designs, plus the fact that the entire line is 100 percent plant-based and compostable. The case material is called “Flaxstic,” which the company says is made from flax straw and compostable bioplastic elastomer. Importantly, it also does not contain BPA, phthalates, cadmium and lead. If you ever decide to get rid of it, you can actually chuck it in a compost bin and it's completely biodegradable; another win for the planet.
Furthermore, Pela cases are available for a wide range of handsets. They can accept iPhones (from iPhone 5 and up), Samsung Galaxies (Galaxy S10 and later), Google Pixels (from Pixel 4a on) and even some OnePlus and Huawei models.
For iPhone users, we should note that Pela cases are not compatible with MagSafe by default, but you can purchase a $13 MagSafe module separately. Applying it to my phone was pretty straightforward, so that wasn't a huge concern, but it was something to keep in mind.
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iPhone compatible: Yes | Material: Recycled materials
Incipio's Organicore line of cases is one of the most attractive we've seen, plus it's 100 percent compostable. You'll find them in clear and matte designs, with the latter having a buttery texture that makes the case feel more luxurious than you might think. Most of Organicore's cases protect your handset from drops of up to eight feet, and we love the way their raised edges defend against accidental bumps and dings. There are also MagSafe options available, so you can still use your iPhone with magnetic accessories without removing your case.
FAQs on eco-friendly phone cases
What makes a phone case eco-friendly?
A phone case can be considered eco-friendly when it is designed to protect not only your phone but also the planet. What differentiates these cases is the use of sustainable materials such as biodegradable plastics, recycled plastic waste or even natural materials such as bamboo or flax straw. Instead of contributing to plastic pollution, these materials break down naturally over time, or are made from recycled content which reduces waste.
Eco-friendly cases can also go a step further by being compostable, meaning you can throw them in a compost bin at the end of their life and they will decompose in the soil without will leave behind harmful residues. Plus, many of the brands behind these cases focus on sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions during production or offering recycling programs for old cases.
