ETIRA urges consumers to avoid non-compliant, dangerous cartridges flooding the market.
At the recent The Recycler Live conference, Javier Martínez from the European Toner and Inkjet Remanufacturers Association (ETIRA) highlighted the significant risks posed by non-OEM printer cartridges. According to ETIRA’s research, one-third of printer cartridges sold in Europe are non-compliant with EU regulations, often lacking proper labelling and safety information. These illegal cartridges contribute substantially to e-waste, with Europe generating 420,000 tons annually, and are responsible for prematurely damaging 20% of printers.
Martínez emphasised these cartridges’ legal and environmental hazards, noting that they do not meet essential standards such as CE marking, WEEE, RoHS, and REACH. The absence of required labels, like the waste bin icon, misleads consumers about their proper disposal, increasing environmental risks. Legal compliance for these products is often avoided to cut costs, leaving consumers exposed to potentially dangerous products.
ETIRA advocates for consumer education to distinguish between legal and illegal cartridges. Remanufactured cartridges, particularly those made in Europe, are recommended as the best legal and environmentally friendly option. By using remanufactured cartridges, CO2 emissions can be significantly reduced, and consumer costs lowered by up to 60%.
The organization calls for increased vigilance and regulatory enforcement, but also recognizes the power of consumers in this fight. Consumers are encouraged to demand proper documentation and report any non-compliant products to authorities.
ETIRA’s presentation highlighted a critical need for regulatory compliance and industry and consumer awareness to combat the proliferation of potentially dangerous, non-compliant printer cartridges in the European market. The remanufacturing industry in Europe offers a sustainable and legal alternative, crucial for reducing e-waste and protecting the environment.
