Walgreens launches new recycling program for cell phones, printer cartridges

DEERFIELD, Ill. In line with Earth Day, one of the nation's largest drug store chains will implement a recycling program for cell phones and printer cartridges at all store locations.

Walgreens said beginning Earth Day, April 22, customers can drop off old printer cartridges and cell phones at any Walgreens photo counter. As part of the program, a total of $500,000 will be donated to the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association. Similarly, Walgreens.com has launch an “Earth Day Shop,” which will feature hundreds of eco-friendly beauty, personal care and household products. From April 22 through April 25, 30% of all online “Earth Day Shop” sales will be donated to the World Wildlife Fund. Featured items can be found at www.Walgreens.com/EarthDay.

The initiatives mark one of several implemented by Walgreens. Last October, the company opened the nation’s first drugstore to be LEED certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Additionally, the drug store chain recycled nearly 71,000 tons of cardboard, the equivalent of saving more than 1.2 million trees. It also recycled enough plastic shrink wrap to save it from a landfill the area of a football field 17 ft. tall.

“People want to feel good about where they shop, work or invest their money,” said Walgreens VP corporate affairs and communications Chuck Greener. “This recycling program gives our customers a convenient way to do their part for the environment and a good cause. We’re proud of the great strides we’ve made toward reducing our carbon footprint and are excited about new, responsible and innovative projects we’ve planned in the near future.”