CtL has been involved in the evaluation of the environmental benefits associated with imaging consumables for almost a decade. In 2003, CtL provided information to RMIT University (Melbourne) to assist in the development of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of print consumables. In 2006, CtL developed their own carbon model based on an LCA approach with Enviros Consulting Ltd.
The most recent model was produced in 2010 with assistance from Environmental Resources Management (ERM). The 2010 CtL Carbon Model assesses the life cycle carbon impact of all materials and energy used in the processing of used print consumables by CtL, and the production of useful products from ink cartridges, toner cartridges and toner bottles. The model is complex and to accommodate the large number of calculations and options the specialist life cycle assessment software SimaPro is utilised. The model was designed according to the principles set out in PAS 2050, a globally recognised product carbon footprinting standard. However, it has not been audited against this standard and no external review certifying that the results it generates are compliant with PAS 2050 has taken place.
The results of the CtL model are presented in terms of kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kg CO₂ eq). The model shows that depending on the type of cartridge or bottle and the end use of the recovered products the carbon benefit from using CtL is in the order of 10t CO2eq for every 1 tonne of print consumables processed.
The model was designed to aid CtL’s internal decision making and evaluation only and results should not be published or attributed to CtL directly. The results cannot be used for reporting in line with emission trading schemes.
If you would like further information on the use of the model or you are a manufacturer and would like to use our model or data please contact our sales team who will direct you to the best person to meet your needs.
