Recycling programs focus on two very important concepts. They are good for the planet and good for our wallets. Many of these programs are set up by retailers because they get government tax credits on their end…therefore they can pass some of that on to us. They're also very anxious to join all the "Save the Earth" initiatives. They should be. The amount of trees pulverized for new paper is unbelieveable, so we should be doing everything we can to utilize post-consumer waste. Staples is doing this..step by step, from selling recycled paper to now offering their Ink Recycle Rewards program.

Staples has an incredible Ink Recycle program. Don't throw those empty ink cartridges away...are ya nuts? At Staples, you can recycle up to 10 ink printer cartridges per person, per month. They Reward you with $3 for each cartridge you drop off....then they send you a coupon for your total, monthly. If you burn through ink like I do, (printing flyers, brochures and the like), $30/month in Rewards is a big deal.

In addition, Staples has their regular Rewards Card. You earn 1 point for every dollar you spend on your purchases...either online or at the store. This reward, stacked with your Ink Recycle points add up to big dollars monthly. I was able to buy a new office chair for free last month--just with my Rewards money.

Here are the best two things about Staples.com.

First, when you're shopping online, they'll let you use up to six of these coupons in one transaction. They do have an expiration date, but it's usually around 90 days, so you have plenty of time to save them up to use in one transaction.

Second, Staples ships to your house within 48 hours. I'm not kidding. Most of my things have come the very next day. I continue to be shocked and awed at the level of service their online shopping site delivers. It's consistent....ever time I order. In addition, if you DO have to call them, they are courteous and efficient...I had an experience where they actually cared aboutmy screw up. It was my fault--they were nice about it...and they made it right.

Life doesn't get any better than this, my friends. I hope you enjoy your Staples experiences as much as I enjoy mine!

~CouponCathy