Two top 10 phone lists have been released by O2 showing the most and the least environmentally friendly handsets available on the market.

The scores were based on the environmental impact of each handset, from the raw materials and packaging used to its longevity and energy efficiency, and ease of reuse or recycling. Handsets also earn extra marks if they can double as cameras or music players, preventing people from needing to buy a separate second device. The ratings also take in to account the ethical performance of the manufacturer, including its labour standards in the supply chain, environmental principles, and support for community programmes.

Sony Ericsson featured 5 times in the top 10 list with the Sony Ericsson Elm topping the bill with an eco-rating of 4.3 out of 5, which makes sense as the Elm has been designed for that purpose. Other Sony Ericsson phones in the top 10 most Eco-friendly are the Zylo, Vivaz Pro, Xperia X10 Mini and Mini Pro. Nokia also did well, featuring 3 times, with the 6700, C7 and 1800.

See the full list below:

Top 10 Most Eco-Friendly Phones
1. Sony Ericsson Elm: Eco rating, 4.3 out of 5 with an Eco rating of 4.3 out of 5
2. Nokia 6700: Eco rating, 4
3. Nokia C7: Eco rating, 4
4. Nokia 1800: Eco rating, 4
5. Samsung GT-S8500: Eco rating, 4
6. Sony Ericsson Zylo: Eco rating, 4
7. Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 mini pro: Eco rating, 4
8. Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 mini: Eco rating, 4
9. Sony Ericsson Vivaz Pro: Eco rating, 3.9
10. Nokia E500: Eco rating, 3.9

In regards to the least Eco-friendly phones the Palm Pre Plus came second whilst the LG Etna won the crown. LG featured a massive 6 times so I’m not too sure what they put inside their phones. They don’t have much excuse, whereas smartphones like the HTC HD2 and Satio are power-hungry enough to slip in to the least eco-friendly phones.

Top 10 Least Eco-Friendly Phones
1. LG Etna: Eco rating, 2.7
2. Palm Pre Plus: Eco rating, 2.7
3. LG Chocolate: Eco rating, 2.9
4. LG Cookie: Eco rating, 2.9
5. HTC HD2: Eco rating, 2.9
6. LG GT 350: Eco rating, 3.1
7. LG GW300 Etna 2: Eco rating, 3.1
8. Samsung C3050: Eco rating, 3.1
9. LG GT 540: Eco rating, 3.2
10. Sony Ericsson Satio: Eco rating, 3.2

O2 said that these news research ratings would it hopefully to drive up standards within the mobile phone industry:
“We know that sustainability is important for many of our customers and for the first time they will have the whole picture from which to make a full and balanced purchasing decision,” said Ronan Dunne, chief executive of O2 in the UK.

“Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the social and environmental impact of the technology they buy and we believe this kind of product transparency will help empower them to make greener choices.”