Not all organizations are created with a vision for an immediate impact in the short-term as well as a sustainable and positive long term impact- Planet Green is certainly an exception. It is a vibrant example of a business based on a genuine concern for the environment addressed by recycling and reuse in turn creating awareness in those involved at every step of the process.
Innovation
Planet Green is an inkjet cartridge re-manufacturing company. Additionally, the company recycles cell phones and laser cartridges by sending it to their partners where they are refurbished, recycled, or re-manufactured based on environmental guidelines. This is done by helping schools, churches, non-profit organizations, individuals, and businesses raise funds by collecting printer cartridges and cell phones and sending them to Planet Green for recycling. The client organizations of Planet Green can earn money through these fundraisers without paying any fees.
The fundraising activities are supported by providing collection boxes and promotional materials to these institutions. Other resources like downloadable posters, flyers, and templates that may be used in newsletters for spreading the word are also made available. In addition to the collection box, Planet Green provides a return label with the collection box covering total shipping charges for sending the collected items to them. A check is issued to the sender based on the market value of the eligible cartridges and cell phones.
Moreover, there are many creative incentives offered by the company for increasing the fundraising activities of participant organizations. Cash backs, and reward money for participating, and linking the company’s website to their own website are few of many such programs.
Impact
By ensuring that non-biodegradable plastics and metals do not enter the landfills Planet Green is making a commitment to improving environmental and public health for generations to come.
While there are several ways to measure Planet Green’s positive impact on the environment, the most direct is the total amount of pounds or units of electronic equipment collected and redistributed. Planet Green typically collects approximately 4000 printer cartridges and 800 cellular phones per month. Considering that more than 300 million printer cartridges end up in our landfills on a yearly basis, approximately 90% of printer cartridges are recyclable but only 20% are being recycled with the hazard that excess ink and toner can filter into our water supply. Further, around 130 million broken or otherwise unused cell phones are added each year – the equivalent of 65,000 tons of waste, Planet Green’s business model is a commitment toward environmental stewardship.
In addition to directly decreasing the landfill wastes, results of the company’s efforts can be seen in the increased awareness about recycling and reuse in their clients. The impact is also visible through the burgeoning resource stream of participating non-profits and other organizations.
Inspiration
Observing the slow but steady metamorphosis in people’s perceptions about what it means to recycle was the energizing spirit behind creating a profitable business based on values of environmental sensitivity. Discovering that once an individual or organization starts recycling they are likely to continue if it does not cost them anything helped guarantee the organization’s success.
The business has not only helped the environment but also bolstered the stream of funds for non-profits. Business acumen, environmental awareness, and desire to generate a positive social impact have enabled Planet Green to create value for all stakeholders, including our planet.
The World Inquiry editorial team edited this profile from the original submission of the interviewer or other source. The views expressed do not necessarily represent Case Western Reserve University, the Weatherhead School of Management or the Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit. More >>
