[November 09, 2009] Sprint Takes Wraps Off New Eco-Conscious Accessory Packaging Tweet Nov 09, 2009 (Close-Up Media via COMTEX) -- Sprint said that it is launching "redesigned, environmentally friendly" packaging for its wireless accessory line. Beginning this month, the company said that accessories sold at Sprint retail stores and online at sprint.com will be packaged within a fully recyclable casing that is 20 to 40 percent smaller than previous accessory packaging - which Sprint estimates will save 647 tons of waste annually. Sprint said the new accessory packaging is expected to result in a 35 percent reduction in accessory packaging costs generating an annualized savings for Sprint of approximately $2.1 million. In a release the company noted that additional highlights of Sprint's new accessory packaging include: - The packaging clamshell replaces PVC with PET 1, a more recyclable and environmentally friendly material. - Soy and vegetable-based inks replace petroleum-based ink, exceeding the American Soybean Association SoySeal Standards and reducing the level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). - The paperboard is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified and - ensuring that the paper travels from an FSC-certified forest to a paper manufacturer, merchant, and printer, all of whom have FSC "chain-of-custody" certification. This process promotes conservation and responsible management of forests. "Sprint is proud to launch more sustainable packaging for our accessories," said Ralph Reid, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Sprint. "As we introduce greener products like the Samsung Reclaim and the SOLIO Charger, it only makes sense to implement more eco-friendly solutions that reduce the environmental impact of Sprint products and packaging." Consumers will see the new packaging beginning this month for the following products: - Samsung Instinct HD Protective Carry Wallet - Blackberry Tour Holster - Motorola i856 Holster - Jabra C150 Behind The Ear Wired Headset - HTC Hero Silicone Gels - Samsung Reclaim Clear Ice Phone Cover - Samsung Instinct HD Gels - Samsung Intrepid i350 Silicone Gels - Micro-USB Vehicle Power Charger - Palm Micro - USB VPA - Mini USB VPA - Rim 7250/7520/7100i/Ppc6700 - Samsung VPA - M300.M510 In addition to the newly designed accessory packaging, Sprint said it will begin shipping accessories to customers utilizing a packaging air pillow that contains less resin and is in compliance with ASTM International biodegradable standards - ASTM D5511-02 and ASTM D5338 - that indicate whether a material is compostable. This eco-friendly packaging uses less energy in production, and once disposed, will degrade in a landfill, the company said. Sprint Nextel offers a range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. More Information: www.sprint.com/green ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]