Xerox Gets One Step Closer to Zero Waste Goal

Posted

Xerox has launched a new return and recycling program, aimed at recovering more toner and supplies for reuse. It also gives customers more choices in returning used imaging supplies such as toner bottles and ink cartridges, while simplifying the way they return the used products.

As part of the new recycling and return program, Xerox is partnering with Close the Loop, a recycler of imaging supplies that specializes in cartridge returns. Close the Loop will collect customers' returns and manage the recycling on behalf of Xerox using a material separation process that recovers used materials for reuse in new printer cartridges and other products.

Similar to Xerox's Eco Box program in Europe, customers in the United States can return multiple used supplies via a collection box, free-of-charge, which will be sent to Close the Loop. Instructions are printed on the boxes, which are available at Xerox's returns and recycling Website.

Xerox also has updated the Website, www.xerox.com/gwa, to make the return process easier for customers.

Over the past 12 years, Xerox, along with its customers, has kept more than 143 million pounds of cartridges, bottles, and waste toner out of landfills, said Patricia Calkins, vice president, Sustainability, Environment, Health & Safety.

"As we continue to make it easier for customers to participate in our remanufacturing, reuse and recycling efforts, we get closer and closer to our ultimate goal of zero waste," Calkins added.

According to Xerox’s 2009 sustainability report, released in November 2009, the equipment and supplies returns and recycling programs diverted 106 million pounds of waste from landfills, bringing total landfill avoidance to 2.2 billion pounds since 1991. The company achieved an internal recycle rate of 92 percent in 2008.

Environment + Energy Leader