There are two elements that need to be kept in mind when it comes to printer recycling. The first is that of the disposal of the printing device itself which is only done when it is no longer functional. The second is the disposal of ink cartridges which is more frequent and hazardous than the improper disposal of an entire printer. 90% of the ink cartridges used in the UK are simply being thrown into household bins and finding their way into landfills. The sheer number of these harmful components being disposed of improperly begs the need for printer recycling in Leeds.

Why Recycle Printers and Cartridges?

The harmful contents of printer ink have led to many misconceptions about it being harmful for users while printing. While this is just myth, the harm that they cause to the environment is very real. Containing chemicals such as petroleum oil, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals, leads to the release of lead components into the soil and can cause water pollution. In fact, even the casing of printers and cartridges is made from non-biodegradable plastics which can take thousands of years to degrade. After degradation, they cause harm to the soil. Printer recycling is much more than just disposal. The situation is not a complete cause of despair. There are several specialized companies such as Collect & Recycle that are involved with proper printer recycling in Leeds.

Other factors that you need to consider when it comes to printer recycling are not just those of disposal of the device and cartridges, but also those of the paper and the ink consumed.