Old devices needed to celebrate orangutan’s 40th birthday at Fresno Chaffee Zoo

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Fresno Chaffee Zoo wants anyone with old electronic devices to donate them to the zoo to celebrate their orangutan, Busar’s, 40th birthday.

Busar has been at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo since 1997. He turned 40 on Sunday, and staff at the zoo want to collect as many devices as possible to celebrate.

The plan is to have them recycled to contribute to the healing of natural habitats like Busar’s, where the materials for the devices are mined.

“Simple actions like donating old electronics, shopping for products made with sustainable palm oil, or reducing your plastic waste all have a huge impact that help the world we share thrive,” said Zoological Curator Sarah Shearer.

According to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, the precious metals and minerals inside devices can be recycled. If they are not recycled, the metals can make their way into soil and water and contaminate local ecosystems.

Devices can be dropped off either at the ticket booth or at the orangutan habitat. All devices dropped off should be wiped of all data before donating.

Devices that can be recycled include:

Cell phones and cell phone batteries

• Smartphones
• iPads
• iPod
• Tablets
• Apple watches
• Adapters
• Chargers
• MP3 players
• Handheld gaming systems and their accessories

The Zoo will be collecting smart devices for 40 days starting on Busar’s birthday, April 28.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.