Cell phones. It is hard to imagine life without them, especially as a young urban Canadian. They are increasingly central in youth culture, with customized ringtones, graphics, photo and video capabilities often based on the latest music trends. But do we know anything about what goes into making them? Who benefits and who loses out? As global citizens it is important to dig a little deeper, "connect the dots" between us and the products we use every day, and understand the way they are produced.

Coltan is a mineral used for storage in things like cell phones, laptops and gaming systems. Coltan has a special property—which allows electricity to be conducted without creating excessive heat. It is used in cell phones, video games, and other electronics. With more than 1 billion cell phones used in the world daily and an increase in demand for other technologies using coltan-this resource has become very valuable for countries that possess it naturally.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has a significant source of this precious ore—but it happens to be mined in rebel-controlled areas (a war broke out in the DRC in 1998). Ugandan- and Rwandan-backed rebel groups have primary control over the access to coltan in the DRC and have reaped huge profits from the mining of this resource—much of which has helped finance their rebel activities.

The International Rescue Committee reports that since the war broke out in 1998, nearly 4 million people have died from war-related causes in the DRC—the largest documented death toll in a conflict since World War II. Coltan is now being increasingly bought from other sources for ethical and economic reasons but it continues to play a role in this politically unstable area.

Although coltan is only one part of a very complex conflict, it nonetheless illustrates a connection between our consumer behaviour here in Canada and important global issues. We live in an increasingly interconnected world and, as responsible global citizens, it is up to us to understand the deeper implications of our everyday actions.

Take Action!
Before you head out to do your Christmas shopping, take the time to do your homework to learn more about the products you are buying.

• Click here to learn more about cell phones and the environment. (Note: While this site includes information about coltan and cell phones, it also has local relevance.).
• Share your knowledge in creative ways at your school. Make an awareness campaign with posters, all-school announcements, and even skits at school assemblies.
• Use your voice to influence change. Ask questions about products when you shop. Contact corporate headquarters if local staff cannot adequately answer your questions. Asking questions and asking for change will lead to results.
• Consider an alternative gift this Christmas. Click here to see World Vision's Gift Catalogue for giving ideas that make a positive difference in the lives of those in need.