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Ink and Toner Recycling for a Greener Office

April 1, 2020


Green is the color of business. Think green dollar bills. Think eco-conscious practices and office spaces.

Not too long ago, many small businesses set out to go entirely paper-free. But the goal proved to be far less practical than originally anticipated. Whether it’s processing client paperwork, compiling reports or reviewing budget materials, printing is still an essential part of our day-to-day work life. Now, small businesses are more focused on limiting excessive printing and ensuring that office supply products are better for the environment.

Needless to say, the printer is a staple of most workplaces. Not only does it use high volumes of paper, but it also uses a lot of ink. That’s why focusing on ink and toner recycling can have a hugely beneficial impact on your office.

By making smart choices in your ink and toner purchases you can achieve the following:

Reduce your carbon footprint

By purchasing “remanufactured” ink cartridges you will be reducing your carbon footprint by ensuring that the products you’re using have another “life” after their first one. Recycled toner and ink are crafted with both new and used materials to create an environmentally-conscious product. These like-new toners and ink cartridges produce clear and smooth results so that your printed documents, business cards or company brochures feature vivid colors to further market your products and services. (Tip: Signing up for Office Depot’s subscription service ensures you are never without ink and toner when you need it.)

Help reduce waste

Unlike paper and many other kinds of waste, print cartridges are not accepted with local neighborhood recycling. That’s why you need a special recycling program that can help keep them out of the landfill. At Office Depot, we have recycled more than 65 million ink and toner cartridges since our recycling program began in 2003. With free pre-printed labels, recycling is easy and affordable.

Create a healthier environment

By recycling your ink and toner cartridges, you are helping support an important tenet of the Environmental Protection Agency. Today, they are thinking beyond waste, and instead have evolved their messages to focus on Sustainable Materials Management (SMM), which refers to the use and reuse of materials across their entire life cycle. Throwing out cartridges doesn’t just contribute to excess landfill waste: The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals they contain can pollute the soil and water.

Save money

By signing up for the Office Depot Rewards program, you can receive a reward for ink and toner recycling—$2 back in program rewards for each cartridge, up to 10 cartridges per month, when you make a $10 qualifying purchase for the month.

The good news is that there is no compromise on quality. By ramping up your ink and toner recycling efforts, you can supply your staff with top-tier materials while reducing your office's carbon footprint.

When exchanging your used materials for recycled products, you and your employees are positively contributing to sustainability efforts while keeping your overhead costs low and contributing to a better environment for us all.


About the Author 

Cathie Ericson is a freelance writer who specializes in small business, finance, and real estate.

All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is,” and neither the author nor Office Depot warrants the accuracy of the information provided, nor do they assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.