In an effort to go greener, Sprint has redesigned the packaging for its extensive wireless accessory line with eco-friendly materials.

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According to a press release, the new packaging reduces use of PVC plastic. The packaging clamshell has replaced PVC with PET 1, which is a more recyclable and environmentally friendly material. Additionally, the company has also replaced petroleum-based ink with Soy and vegetable-based inks, in order to reduce the level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Furthermore, Sprint is now utilizing paperboards that are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. This ensures 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 procedure promotes conservation and responsible management of forests, said officials.

It is estimated that the new accessory packaging will reduce company’s accessory packaging costs by nearly 35 percent, thereby generating an annualized savings of approximately USD $2.1 million, said officials with Sprint.

The following products, including Samsung Instinct HD Protective Carry Wallet, Blackberry Tour Holster, Motorola i856 Holster, Jabra (News - Alert) C150 Behind The Ear Wired Headset, HTC Hero silicone gels, Samsung Reclaim Clear Ice phone cover, Samsung Instinct HD gels, Palm Micro - USB VPA, and some more will also be provided with Sprint’s new accessory packaging, beginning this month.

Sprint also said that it would begin shipping accessories to customers by making use of a packaging air pillow that contains less resin and is also in compliance with ASTM International biodegradable standards, ASTM D5511-02 and ASTM D5338. This biodegradable eco-friendly packaging uses less energy in production as well.

Recently, the company also announced several new environmental initiatives to support its aggressive environmental goals. Apart from existing programs, the company also established new green design criteria for future devices and accessories and also committed to reduce paper usage by 30 percent during the next five years, said officials with Sprint.

In the press release, Ralph Reid, vice president of corporate social responsibility for Sprint, said, “As we introduce greener products like theSamsung ( News - Alert) 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.”

Sprint’s eco-friendly Samsung Reclaim, which is available for USD $49.99, is the first phone in the U.S. to be constructed partly from corn-based bio-plastic and operates on company’s mobile broadband network.

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