The economics are real across a school or a floor: barrel and nib are retained and only ink is bought. The failure is procedural rather than technical, since a refill left undone is the same as an empty marker and the room reverts to disposables. Nibs are replaceable too and usually fail first. See refillable markers, whiteboard markers and sustainable office supplies.

Whiteboard marker refill station arranged on an office desk with refillable markers, caps, eraser and whiteboard notes for reusable board writing.
Whiteboard Marker Refills for Reusable Markers

Whiteboard marker refills for compatible reusable markers. Keep classroom and office boards ready to use.