We’ve heard plenty about printer companies recycling old ink and toner cartridges into new consumables. Now Lexmark has joined the cartridge recycling movement to produce an unconventional new product that has nothing to do with printing images and documents. Instead of making new cartridges from old ones, the high-profile printer manufacturer plans to turn used consumables into a wood substitute called eLumber. This unique new material will play a prominent role in green landscaping applications for a Habitat for Humanity building project in Lexington, KY.

Early reports indicate that eLumber won’t hit the commercial market until later on in 2008. While it may cost as much as 20% more than conventional wood, eLumber should appeal to progressive-minded buyers intent on implementing sustainable construction initiatives.