Making Money From Ink Cartridge Recycling
Laser and Inkjet Printer Cartridge Refills for a Greener Environment
Millions of empty ink and toner cartridges end up on landfill sites or get incinerated each year, contributing to the pollution of the environment and a worsening global warming problem.
Approximately 70% of all ink cartridges and 50% of all toner cartridges are not recycled. The plastics used in printer cartridges are not bio-degradable, the polymer used in the manufacture of cartridges has a very slow decomposing rate ranging between 450 to 1000 years, depending on the cartridge type.
In addition to saving the planet, recycling supports the economy since there are thousands of people employed in the recycling process. Private individuals can make some extra cash as well.
Making Money From Recycled Ink Cartridges
- Ensure that the cartridges are in relatively good condition, without cracks.
- Collect empty or used inkjet and toner cartridges from family members, work colleagues, neighbors etc.
- Store the cartridges in a plastic container in case ink leaks out.
- Check out different recycling companies to decide which will accept the ink cartridges and what their compensation program is. Typically, companies will send out free shipping labels, packing instructions and free postage on request. There are generally instructions on the boxes of new cartridges which also explain how to recycle.
- Compensation received will depend on the cartridge type, printer brand, recycling company concerned and the quantity of cartridges sent in to be recycled.Payment ranges between $0.01 to $15 per used cartridge.
Ink Cartridge Refill Kits What to Do
- Read the instructions completely and look over the illustrations before attempting the refill the cartridge.
- Have patience. The inks should be injected slowly to allow for proper air venting and to prevent bubbles or air pockets.
- Understand colors: Magenta is red, cyan is blue etc.
- Don't wait until the last minute to refill.
- Don't give up, call technical support if there is a problem.
- Do not keep ink cartridges stored for years and then expect a problem free refill. Ink does dry up and cannot be stored indefinitely.
- Use gloves (usually included with refill kits) and fill cartridges over an old newspaper or over a sink to avoid a mess.
How Many Times can Cartridges be Refilled?
The average lifespan of an ink jet cartridge is 5 - 7 refills but some people manage to refill as many as 15 times. If any of the nozzles on inkjet printers gets clogged or burn out, the cartridge can become unusable. Take care of the cartridge itself in order to prolong its life. Do not handle the cartridge more than necessary or get finger prints on the contact points.
Recycling cartridges really is a win-win situation for all. A refill kit can cost in the region of $40 which can refill a cartridge with ink approximately 15 times. To purchase 15 new color cartridges would cost approximately $525.00. Added to that is the benefit of helping to lessen the impact on the environment by not purchasing virgin cartridges produced from raw materials.
Source:
- InkGuides.com, article "Why Recycle Printer Cartridges?" June 2009.
More Articles on Saving and Recycling:
Ink Cartridge Recycling for a Greener Planet
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Printer Ink Cartridge Recycling
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Cartridge Refills Help to Save the Planet
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