Staples Boasts 350 Million Ink & Toner Cartridges Recycled

Staples Inc., one of the world’s largest office supply companies, announced that since 2005 it has recycled 350 million ink and toner cartridges. According to Staples, it reached the milestone rate of 60 million cartridges per year in 2010. Altogether 182 million pounds of plastics and metal have been recycled by Staples, which is equivalent to 400 times the weight of the Statue of Liberty, or one aircraft carrier.

Mark Buckley, Vice President, Environmental Affairs, Staples, said, “Staples is America’s number one choice for ink and toner, in part because of our great cartridge recycling program. As the largest retail recycler of ink and toner in North America, Staples is thrilled to be the first to reach this milestone, as we help customers reduce their environmental footprint and save money at the same time. Staples makes it easy to find replacement ink and toner, with fast, free delivery on Staples.com and knowledgeable associates to assist with in-store purchases.”

Staples noted that by participating in Staples’ ink and toner cartridge recycling program, customers can receive $2 back in Staples Rewards® per recycled cartridge. But one customer can only donate 10 cartridges at most per month. Used cartridges can be dropped off at any of Staples’ many retail sites.

Staples was the first national retailer to repay customers for recycling ink and toner cartridges. Furthermore, Staples Rewards members receive free shipping from Staples.com and 5% back upon all purchases.

In July 2013, Staples announced it had 500 facilities approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® program.