Low End Mac readers really take recycling to heart. We keep Macs
running for as long as possible. We fix up machines and give them new
lives in schools, churches, and local businesses. Of course, we keep a
few for our own collection as well!
But in the end, there comes a time when you just can't keep that old
Mac running. When that happens, what is the best way to dispose of your
machines in an environmentally responsible manner ?
I was recently faced
with this question, as I had a few unsalvageable machines (a tank-like
Power Mac 9600 and two
7200) from a collection of
classic Macs that I purchased. I was unwilling to simply landfill the
machines, as I wanted to ensure that any useful components were reused
and that the remainder was disposed of here in the US - not in some
Third World country with lax environmental laws.
During my search, I found the
EPA's ecycling site, which has a wealth of information on
electronic waste recycling. Of particular interest to me was the list
of EPA's ecycling partners. I scanned the list and decided on Staples, as they are close to my
workplace and accept not just small electronics, like cellphones, but
also desktop systems and monitors.
Before I recycled my electronics, I decided to see if I could get a
Q&A with someone at Staples and share that with LEM readers. I
contacted Mike Black, Program Manager of Public Relations, who was kind
enough to put me in touch with Mark Buckley, Vice President of
Environmental Affairs. Mark agreed to answer my questions, my questions
and his responses) are below:
1. Tell me about yourself, especially how you came to this position
at Staples, your job responsibilities, etc.
As vice president of environmental affairs, I direct
Staples' sustainable business practices to protect and preserve natural
resources. I'm responsible for driving the company's environmental
leadership in four major areas: recycling; offering a wide assortment
of eco-friendly products; investing in energy efficiency and renewable
energy; and educating customers and associates about
sustainability.
I've worked for Staples for 18 years. Prior to my
current role, I was vice president of facilities management and
purchasing at Staples, where I directed companywide recycling and
energy conservation programs. Prior to Staples, I held several
leadership positions in the field of environmental management for Star
Market, Continental Baking, General Environmental Services Inc., and
the US Department of Interior/Aquaculture Project. I have a Bachelors
degree in biology from St. Anselm's College and am an active member of
several environmental groups for the State of Massachusetts.
2. Give me a brief overview of Staples' computer recycling program
and how it fit's into the company's overall environmental and corporate
strategy.
Staples is committed to making it easy for our
customers to make a difference for the environment - what we call
EcoEasy. Offering everyday, easy recycling options is one of the
ways we're helping customers to take action against the growing problem
of e-waste. We offer customers in-store recycling for a wide variety of
technology, including office technology (computers, printers, etc.),
personal technology (cell phones, PDAs), and ink and toner
cartridges.
In February 2008, we launched a new online service
(staples.com/greensight) that
lets customers recycle their newer technology items like laptops,
desktops, digital cameras, and LCD monitors in return for Staples
coupons to spend online or in stores.
In addition to recycling, we offer more than 3,000
eco-friendly products, ranging from biodegradable packing peanuts to
Staples brand recycled paper that is certified by the Forest
Stewardship Council. You can find many of these products easily at
staples.com/ecoeasy.
3. I like the fact that the machines are recycled here in the US. We
have all heard horror stories of electronic waste shipped to Third
World countries for improper disposal. How did Staples select Eco International?
We chose to work with Eco International because they
are committed to responsible recycling practices. Eco International
does not ship equipment overseas to developing countries where limited
to no environmental standards are met.
In addition to their safe recycling practices, Eco
International is one of the country's most experienced and innovative
electronics recyclers. They have a patented method for CRT (cathode ray
tube) recycling, which is the most toxic part of older desktop computer
systems. And because they are national, they're able to serve our more
than 1,400 US stores.
4. How did Staples become a partner in the EPA's e-cycling program?
What does that entail?
Staples joined EPA's Plug-in to eCycling program in
2003. Our membership enables Staples to join with other major brands to
help to raise awareness about e-waste and bring innovative recycling
options to the marketplace. Staples is also a member of the EPA's
WasteWise program.
5. What has been the response to your computer recycling program ?
How long has it been in place?
Staples has offered in-store recycling for cell
phones, PDAs, and other personal technology for several years. In May
2007, we became the first national retailer to offer everyday recycling
for larger office technology items such as computers, printers, and fax
machines. Through the program, customers can recycle larger items for a
small fee and smaller items, such as keyboards, mice, and other
peripherals, for free. We've seen a great customer response,
particularly from small businesses that have very few easy options for
recycling technology waste in their communities.
6. What additional steps should the tech industry take to minimize
the impact on the environment ?
As an office supplier, we see a growing trend of
customers who want to make responsible technology purchasing decisions.
The tech industry can meet this demand by continuing to qualify and
comply with EPA Energy Star and
EPEAT standards related to green
manufacturing and "design for sustainability", thereby making their
technology more energy-efficient and easier to recycle. Many companies
are already making great strides in this area.
7. Anything else you would like to share or highlight ?
Beyond our own recycling services, Staples is a
sponsor of Earth 911
Business, an online business-to-business resource to help companies
find recyclers in their communities. The site also offers great tips
and advice for making your business or home office more green. I invite
your readers to check it out.
Okay, everything sounded kosher, so I loaded up my old Macs and
headed for Staples. I pushed my buggy of machines up to a nice young
lady at the Customer Service desk and asked to recycle them. She
explained that it would be a $10 charge per large component (desktop or
monitor), but that anything small like keyboards, mice, and speakers
would be free. I told her that would be fine.
We had a laugh when she noticed the Apple logo and asked if the
machines were old iMacs. I joked that there actually was an Apple
before the iMac and iPod - believe it or not! I happily paid my $30,
glad that disposal of my machines would be properly managed.
All in all, Staples has provided a pretty painless way to do the
right thing. Hopefully we will see other large electronic retailers
following suit. 
