Facts About Recycled Ink Cartridges

By refilling and recycling printer ink and toner cartridges you can save money and help the environment. It is easy to recycle ink cartridges: You can drop them off at Staples or Office Depot, or check Earth 911 for options in your area.

Types

Some printer ink and toner cartridges are able to be refilled while others can only be recycled. Check with your cartridges' manufacturer to see which option is appropriate for yours.

Why Recycle?

Recycling ink and toner cartridges reduces the amount of plastic needing to be manufactured, reduces the amount of potentially toxic chemicals entering the environment, and in some cases can save or even earn you money.

Companies That Recycle Ink Cartridges

There are a number of companies that recycle ink and toner cartridges in addition to the manufacturers themselves. Castle Ink, Free Recycling and Recycle 4 Charity have a list of types of ink cartridges they accept published on their websites.

Fundraising Idea

If you are looking for a fundraising activity for community involvement such as supporting a look school, consider collecting ink cartridges. Several companies will not only take the cartridges for remanufacturing or recycling but will also help set up the whole fundraising initiative (see "Resources").

Fun Fact

According to the Daily Green, remanufactured laser cartridges use about half the amount of oil needed to make brand new ones.

Resources

• The Daily Green
• Cartridge Fundraising