A Package Deal

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Dell is working toward that objective by using recycled materials, including newspapers, milk jugs and laundry detergent bottles, to create cushions for PC packages.

$8 million in savings

Dell’s goal is to reduce its packaging material by 20 million pounds over four years and increase by 40% its use of recycled material for packaging and cushioning products. Dell also has a goal of reducing its carbon emissions by 15% by 2012. Dell undertook a packaging reduction initiative in 2007 and reports that in that year it exceeded by nearly 10% its goal of reducing outbound packaging by 10 million pounds.

Dell, which worked with sustainability consulting agency Saatchi & Saatchi to develop the program, expects to save $8 million over four years with the initiative. It’s also planning for 75% of its packaging material to be recyclable in residential curbside recycling programs.

With the growing concern about the environment in recent years, there are many new materials and techniques coming to market that can help e-retailers whittle down their shipping and packaging costs-and build brand loyalty among eco-conscious consumers. E-retailers who do a little digging just might come up with a winning package.

katie@verticalwebmedia.com