London Drugs Stats

Some Quick Facts:

• Each month, London Drugs recycles approximately 3800 kilograms of plastic. 45,800 kilograms of plastic is recycled annually
• Each year we recycle approximately 4187 metric tonnes or 9.21 million pounds of cardboard, including our Head Office and the DSC
• In 18 months we diverted 40 semi-trailer truckloads of expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) from landfills, recycling it as a commodity to be reused in manufacturing.
• In 2006, London Drugs collected and helped to recycle 1,694 kilograms (3,734 pounds) of used rechargeable batteries

At head office and all of our locations across Western Canada, London Drugs is committed to reducing packaging, water usage and waste.

Computer Department

London Drugs was among the first to encourage our software vendors to deliver their product in smaller, more efficient packaging. Traditionally, suppliers are interested in getting more shelf space with a larger box, but now more are coming to realize that more efficient packaging can be just as effective. Canadian tax software maker Intuit (makers of Quicktax, Taxwiz and Quicken products) is one good example of a vendor who is working to make their process greener.

We specifically look for Energy Star items. Energy Star is one of the most successful programs in North America for helping customers choose more energy efficient products. We actively seek out products that have earned this designation.

London Drugs is on the front lines of the recycling movement. We know we have to think beyond our own walls, so we dedicate time and resources to organizations that are working to make recycling mainstream. We have had computer department managers serving on the boards of both the Alberta Recycling Management Authority and the Electronics Stewardship Association of BC. We actively engage with the various electronics recycling programs, and as a result, our in-house program is well regarded as a leader by both business and government.

We're always looking for products on the leading edge - of sustainability as well as technology. "Harbour 100" paper, by Gray's Harbour is one great example, made from 100% post-consumer recycled fiber less than 400 km from our distribution centre. For digital photo buffs, we found Hahnemuhle - the world's first digital fine art inkjet paper made from bamboo, a much more sustainable source of paper fiber. (We also double-checked that the bamboo was being harvested sustainably) These are all small steps, but when it comes to being greener, a little extra homework pays off.

RoHS Electronics Purchasing

Wherever possible, the electronics we sell are RoHS compliant. RoHS, the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, was adopted in February 2003 by the European Union, and restricts the use of six hazardous materials in the manufacture of various types of electronic and electrical equipment:

• Lead
• Mercury
• Cadmium
• Hexavalent chromium (or Cr6+)
• Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB)
• Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)

While Canadian and American companies are not required to comply with this directive, London Drugs feels it is important to ensure our products are as healthy as possible for our customers.