When selecting print supplies, does your organization take into account the “green” benefits of the various offerings? Keypoint Intelligence/InfoTrends research shows that the large majority of companies do consider environmental factors when choosing print cartridges and related supplies. That said, what are the most environmentally friendly supplies options? This blog post will discuss some key questions to consider when making this determination.
When purchasing IT-related products and services, does your company evaluate the sustainability and environmental policies of the supplies and consumables for use with the product?
Source: Keypoint Intelligence/InfoTrends primary research
Where did the cartridges originate?
Ask your supplies provider where their cartridges come from. Are they made entirely of new material, do they contain some used material, or are they remanufactured cartridges? Typically, remanufactured cartridges are repurposed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) cartridges that have been checked for usability, repaired, refilled with printing material, and tested for operability. The fact so much material is being reused makes it a relatively “green” option.
Where will the cartridges end up?
Determine where the cartridges are likely to end up. You may have a fair amount of control in this area. If you decide to throw away the cartridges, for example, it’s likely they will end up in a landfill. But if you return the cartridges to your supplies provider and/or through a dedicated recycling program (e.g., Close the Loop, which various OEMs participate in), the cartridge is more likely to be reused. Ask your office equipment/supplies provider if a program is in place to recycle the cartridges.
Do toner and ink mixtures comply with regulations?
Find out if the toner/ink offered by your supplies provider abides by various environmental standards, such as criteria from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) and country-specific regulations. On a related note, products like low-melt toner may offer benefits in terms of energy use.
How large are your cartridges/other supplies?
Using high-capacity supplies that yield more pages may be a more sustainable option. This may mean, for instance, less packaging and waste, fewer trips for supplies delivery, and fewer trips by a service technician. You may already be using high-capacity supplies (e.g., cartridges, drums, developers, waste toner container), but if not consider asking your supplies provider if it is an option.
Eco-conscious organizations are encouraged to select print supplies and supply providers offering environmental benefits like recycled parts, recycling programs, and safe ink and toner formulations. Check out our Toner Recycling program offering free pre-paid shipping to labels for empty inkjet and laser toner cartridges.
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