SUSTAINABLE TONER
consumables compared to ‘new’ ones, but the boost to sustainability is enormous. By remanufacturing toners in the way we do, we cut CO2 emissions by about 5,300 tonnes every year. “We know resellers are always looking for ways to support their customers’ sustainability goals and our remanufacturing operations are another solution for them to offer businesses.” Making a difference But using sustainable toner and recycling cartridges isn’t just for show – it can make a real difference to a business meeting its sustainability targets. “If products are going through a ‘true’ recycling process, then it can make a substantial difference,” says Peter. “Numbers vary, but a common figure is that 65 million printer cartridges are discarded in the UK every year – simply doing the maths show that improving on the current 30% recycling ratio will make a big difference.” The way cartridges are made has an impact, Steve adds. “Sustainable, long-life components – such as image drums and high-capacity toners – are eco-conscious by design,” he says. “Reducing how often you replace consumables drives down total cost of ownership (TCO) and cuts the need for raw materials, associated emissions and shipping mileage. In short, the difference made is stark if businesses commit to the sustainability cause. “Kyocera’s cartridges, for example, are 100% recyclable. They are made from two plastics, contain as few as 10 components, and ship in eco-friendly packaging. They are independently tested to ensure a specific number of pages over their lifetime: the volume required to maintain low TCO. “Further, Kyocera toners do not contain chemicals that release carcinogenic particles such as mercury, lead, nickel and chromium VI compounds. This helps ensure the health of end users and maintains a safe workplace.” Reseller conversations When talking to customers about toners, and their sustainability, there are several factors that should be highlighted. Going back to an earlier point, Steve says that choosing sustainable toner is about provenance and performance as well as the environment more generally. “Resellers should be talking extensively about this in their customer conversations,” he says. “After all, you wouldn’t put cheap fuel in a sports car
Peter Cowan group chief operations officer
data-direct.co.uk
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Dealers should also focus customers on what happens to their cartridge after they have finished with it. Using a programme such as ours gives them a fully trackable environment, which has real value.
as you wouldn’t get the best out of it! “Long-life components and high-capacity toner reduce TCO because customers simply don’t need to replace cartridges nearly as often, while embracing sustainable materials and production methods ensures long-term environmental benefits. Resellers should build these arguments into sustainability-led sales and marketing initiatives. “It’s also important for resellers to emphasise the importance and ease of toner recycling programmes. As explored earlier, this is something we do extensively at Kyocera. “Carbon offsetting programmes should also be promoted. We can offset the emissions of the consumables of every product in our range, with registered customers receiving a certificate of authenticity after enrolling. Customers are becoming more and more aware of the advantages of such schemes, so resellers being able to offer them is key.” Peter adds that dealers should also focus customers on what happens to their cartridge after they have finished with it. “Using a programme such as ours gives them a fully trackable environment, which has real value,” he says. With interest in sustainability only growing, it means that sustainable toner will be an important part of resellers’ conversations about print and consumables for the foreseeable future and beyond.
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printinthechannel.co.uk
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