by Fatima Ali

Created on: August 10, 2010   Last Updated: August 11, 2010

It's important that we recycle our used ink cartridges and laser toners. Millions of empty printer ink and toner cartridges get thrown away and end up in landfills. It is estimated that only 20-40% of inkjet cartridges are being recycled, people are still throwing 60-80% of them in the bin. Because these cheap inkjet cartridges are made from plastic, petroleum-based products it can take 1,000 of years to decompose. Incinerating them is even more catastrophic as they release toxic petroleum related and heavy metal chemicals into the air we breathe.

Cheap printer Cartridges are costing the earth more as this kind of waste is filling up millions of cubic feet of landfills per year and costing the taxpayer more. Recovering and reusing inks helps diverts millions of cubic feet of material from waste disposal, saving us the millions of pounds needed to pay for additional landfill sites.

If you're not recycling yet start now, you can even earn some money while you help the planet.  Recycling empty cartridges is easy, profitable and environmentally friendly. Most printers ink cartridges can be recycled up to six times.  They can be refurbished, refilled and sold at considerably cheaper prices than branded OEM cartridges. With regards to the quality and output the recycled printer ink jet cartridges will provide the same as new cartridges.

You can start recycling your used ink cartridges today by refilling them yourself. This can create significant cost savings for you over the life of your printer. DIY Refill kits are available to top up your empty ink or toner cheap. This method does require some time and skill. If refilling is not for you then recycle as a donation to charity. Recycling used cartridges makes a great fundraiser for schools, charities and any non-profit organisations.

If you want to get paid search the internet for businesses that will pay you money for your used cartridges. These websites will either pick up your cartridges or give you free pre-paid address to post them. Only send them printer cartridges they will accept, if you send in cartridges that are not on their list, they won't pay you and might even charge you.

When buying your next cartridge remember to consider buying a remanufactured or refilled cartridge. By doing this you get an inkjet cartridge cheap but also contribute to the health of our planet. Ink raider refilled, recycled and remanufactured products are available at deeply discounted prices for school, office or personal use. Whether you receive cash back or donate the proceeds to charity, do your part to recycle your used printer ink cartridges and help the planet earth while you help yourself. It’s our responsibility!

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