Printer cartridge recycling now available in Waltham Forest
![Two printer cartridge bins](/sites/default/files/styles/x_small_3_2_546_x_364_/public/2024-08/1000033160.jpg.webp?itok=XgA39pQr)
You can now recycle your printer cartridges in Waltham Forest.
Printer cartridges are the latest item to be added to our ‘additional items for recycling’ list and it is free to use.
How do I get involved?
Simply place your used cartridges in a plastic carrier bag and present them on top of your green bin on collection day.
The printer cartridges will be collected from the depot by our partners Zero Waste Recycling, who will then separate and recycle them.
Why should I recycle my printer cartridges?
- Protects the Environment:
- Less Waste: Cartridges are made of materials that take a long time to break down in landfills. Recycling keeps them out of landfills.
- Saves Resources: Recycling uses materials from old cartridges instead of new raw materials, conserving resources.
- Reduces Pollution: Making new cartridges produces pollution. Recycling cuts down on this.
- Saves Energy:
- Less Energy Needed: Recycling cartridges uses less energy than making new ones, reducing carbon emissions.
- Economic Benefits:
- Cost Savings: Recycled cartridges can be cheaper than new ones.
- Social Responsibility:
- Good for Local Authority: Recycling shows that a LA cares about the environment, supports the climate action plan.
- Community Support: Recycling programs often help educate the community about sustainability.
- Legal Compliance:
- Following Rules: Some places have laws that require recycling electronic waste, including cartridges. Recycling helps avoid legal issues.
- Safe Disposal:
- Handles Toxins: Cartridges can contain harmful substances. Recycling ensures they are disposed of safely.
Cllr Clyde Loakes MBE, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate and Air Quality said, “Waltham Forest continues to enhance its recycling offer, with printer cartridges the latest additional item we are collecting from your front door.
“Up to one litre of oil is used to make a new printer cartridge, and up to 45 million printer cartridges end up in landfill, just in the UK, each year. These can then take over 1,000 years to decompose. Using our simple recycling solution is beneficial for you and for our environment.
“Thank you to all our residents who continue to diligently recycle. Together, we are leading the way for Waltham Forest to become a net-zero borough.”