You can keep used Epson printer cartridges--both laser and ink-jet--out of landfills. Earth911 notes that nearly 375 million cartridges are thrown away each year; almost all of the cartridges could be recycled and refurbished, cutting down on 38,000 tons of landfill waste and waste of natural resources. Business owners can recycle Epson cartridges locally, benefiting charities in their community, or send them off to national charities and non-profit organisations.
Contact your community's public works department and ask whether electronic equipment fund-raising drives are scheduled. Schools, libraries and churches may sponsor the events. Find out where there is a fund-raising drop-off box in your community.
Send used Epson cartridges to CURE, a non-profit organisation that fights childhood cancer. CURE accepts donations of Epson inkjet cartridges that are in good condition. Gather cartridges from your workplace or save your used Epson cartridges until you have enough to fill a shipping box. Then package the cartridges in bubble wrap and place them inside the shipping box. Contact CURE to obtain a prepaid shipping label.
CURE Recycling
117 Neetle Close Drive
Woodstock, GA 30188
404-680-1043
earthtonesolutions.com
Donate used Epson cartridges to charity through Empties4Cash. The program supports Habitat for Humanity, animal rescue organisations and services for at-risk youths. To donate through Empties4Cash, choose your charity from their list and sign up as a supporter of that organisation by providing your e-mail address and personal information. Package your Epson cartridges for shipping and send them to Empties4Cash. They'll process the cartridges and send the proceeds to your chosen charity.
Empties4Cash.com
1621 E. Saint Andrew Place
Santa Ana, CA 92705
800-456-4320
empties4cash.com
Return Epson E5700 drum cartridges to Cartridges For Kids, through which they will be recycled. Proceeds will be donated to a charity of your choice. Businesses and schools can participate in this program. Contact Cartridges For Kids to obtain free shipping labels for the cartridges and to choose a recipient school.
Cartridges for Kids
451 W. 69th Street
Loveland, CO 80538
800-420-0235
cartridgesforkids.com