Let’s face it: Even with email and texting, sometimes you still need the paper trail. However, as with all appliances these days, there are eco-friendly printer options available to the savvy consumer that use post-consumer parts and utilize less energy than conventional models.

Always look for Energy Star-rated models, which use at least 25 percent less energy than non-rated models, last longer, and save you an average of $115 over the appliance’s lifespan. Find a complete list of Energy Star-rated printers here. Be sure to choose all-in-one multitaskers that print, fax, scan, copy and you name it, because these use less energy than separate machines. And, as a rule, inkjet printers use 90% less energy than laser models, according to EPA’s guide to an energy-efficient office, which also advises that machines be turned off when not in use.

When you buy a new printer, you should also look for a model that is made of recycled and recyclable materials. Printers made from post consumer plastic waste, meaning plastics that were already used by a consumer and then discarded, are the only printers that can truly claim the “recycled” label. HP’s Deskjet D2542 is made from 83 percent post consumer waste, uses ink cartridges made from 75 percent post consumer waste, and is Energy Star-rated, using 40 percent less energy in idle and sleep mode than other HP models. Its packaging is recyclable, too. HP also has a recycling page with links to donate or recycle your old products and manage paper use.

Printer cartridges, of course, can be recycled, and you’ll get a $3 rebate,  at Staples, sent back to manufacturers using  free UPS labels, or bundled with your school group for fundraising or donated to other non-profits through Recycle4charity.

 By Rachel Brown 

See more articles from Your Daily Green Bit

Posted by Mindy Pennybacker on Oct 3, 2008 at 2:49 PM
Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)