By redesigning packaging for its phone accessories, Sprint expects to save $2.1 million annually in packaging costs.
This represents a 35 percent reduction in packaging costs, according to a press release, and a corresponding reduction in 647 tons of waste annually.
The new packaging -- which is made of recyclable PET 1, replacing PVC -- is 20-40 percent smaller than the packaging it replaces.
Ink on the packaging is now soy-based, instead of petroleum-based.
Paperboard used in the packaging is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
For items purchased online, Sprint will ship to consumers using a new packaging air pillow that contains less resin and is biodegradable.
The new packaging will be used on the following items:
The Green Carrier Matrix from ABI Research recently ranked Sprint/Nextel No. 2 among mobile phone companies based on the environmental impact of its network infrastructure, green network equipment, green handsets and handset recycling. AT&T was ranked No. 1.
