In an attempt to generate revenue while helping the environment, the USPS has decided to step-up its ink cartridge and toner cartridge recycling program. The USPS is currently considering business partnership proposals, hoping to work with small business and consumers to make recycling e-waste more convenient and efficient. (Computerworld, 2006).

The USPS has participated in a trial recycling program since 1999 and now hopes to create an accessible e-waste recycling program by utilizing its 39000 retail locations, 300,000 collection boxes and army of letter carriers. In the proposal, the USPS claims the “ideal solution would allow consumers and small businesses to safely and effectively dispose of their obsolete materials” (USPS 2006).

Beginning with inkjet cartridges, toner cartridges and cell phones, the proposed USPS program has later plans to incorporate other forms of e-waste, such as computers and other electronic hardware, into its recycling regime.

With a partnership between USPS and one or more companies, the USPS plans to sell preaddressed, prepaid shipping envelopes at post offices, which allow consumers to ship used cartridges to recycling facilities. The proposal claims the ideal business partnership would include payment of these envelopes by the recycling facilities, using the USPS as a means to transfer the recyclable e-waste.

The USPS hopes to promote and market this program by using post office lobbies, the media and working with remanufacturing and recycling companies to advertise a national recycling campaign.

Sources:

Postal Service eyes e-waste recycling, seeks industry partner. Rosencrance, Linda. Computerworld. Feb 16, 2006. <http://www.computerworld.com/governmenttopics/government/story/0,10801,108776,00.html>

USPS Request for Information, E-waste Recycling Program
http://www2.fbo.gov/EPSData/USPS/Synopses/3565/Reference-Number-R-0001-EWASTERECYCLING/RFI-EWASTERECYCLING.doc