Did you know that 97 percent of a printer cartridge can be recycled or reused? Sadly, around 70 percent of all ink cartridges and 50 percent of toner cartridges aren’t recycled. More than 300 million ink cartridges end up in U.S. landfills every year, and each one can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. Here are a few important reasons to recycle ink cartridges:
Ink cartridges that end up in the landfill cause environmental harm, emit greenhouse gases and pollute the air and water. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies carbon black toner as carcinogenic.
Recycling empty ink cartridges cuts down on the natural resources and energy required to manufacture a new cartridge. For example, a new laser cartridge requires more than three quarts of oil to produce, and an inkjet cartridge requires roughly three ounces of oil to make!
However, re-manufacturing plastic requires roughly 80 percent less energy than manufacturing it new. Recycled ink and toner cartridges are just as good as new ones, and it’s easier to recycle empty ink cartridges than you may think.
Most manufacturers have recycling programs offering prepaid postage to ship old toner cartridges back to the manufacturers. You can also take matters into your own hands and sell them online.
In fact, recycling ink cartridges can help cut down on printing costs for your office. Most major office supply stores, including Staples, Office Max, Walmart, and Office Depot, have ink cartridge recycling bins on-site.
Pacific Office Automation understands office equipment can have a huge impact on the environment, and we are dedicated to lightening its impact in all stages, from manufacturing, to operation, to after-life. We strive to lengthen the life of all equipment your office may use by minimizing wear and tear.
Similarly, we only partner with manufacturers that are as equally dedicated to preventing pollution and reducing greenhouse gases, which is why we offer Energy Star-rated commercial printers. We are equally serious about sustainability within our own company, recycling nearly 100% of unwanted machines, toner, and cardboard. We help our customers by removing any waste products after setting up new machines and provide customers with return-shipping labels for toner cartridges.
Get in touch with your local POA office today to find out how we can help your organization reduce its carbon footprint while also saving you time and money!