Environmental consciousness is one of the prime topics in the print industry as consumers say green printing techniques are very important to them when working on a project. Environmentally friendly printers are viewed positively by the public as consumers hope to help the environment while still being able to print their needed materials.
Since the public wants to team with someone who implements sustainable printing practices, it makes sense that you’d want to know if your current commercial printer or prospective print partner is also a believer in environmentally friendly printing. In order to help you find the answers, we have gathered information that highlights how the print industry has transformed to environmentally friendly printers as well as questions you can ask to see if a print company is working to protect the environment.
Sustainable Printing Practices
The desire for green printing solutions means environmentally friendly printers are looking for ways to ensure they are performing sustainable printing practices:
Digital Printing
Since digital printing does not require a plate to perform the task, the necessary ink sits on the top layer. In turn, this greatly reduces the amount of waste that is generated when compared to more traditional print methods that require a plate.
Carbon Balanced Paper & Print
This environmentally friendly printing method is being implemented by environmentally friendly printers so the average CO2 made to create and deliver paper is offset by the printing company.
Uncoated Paper
Uncoated paper is easier to break down on a regular basis. The ease of this task is one of the main reasons why uncoated paper is widely accepted by mills for recycling.
Environmental Questions to Ask a Print Company
If you are curious about the environmental commitment of your print company of choice, you should be prepared to ask them specific, in-depth questions related to environmental practices that are common to the print industry. Here are some of the most common questions to ask:
How Do Your Company Dispose of Ink?
The disposal of ink is important because of the impact it can have on the environment. While inks have become less toxic, they need to be disposed of properly and in a responsible manner.
Do Renewable Energy Sources Power Your Facility?
Many print companies use wind and solar power, or even electric power, produced by other pieces of equipment. Ask the printer how they power their facility to determine their environmental footprint.
Do You Recycle?
Recycling Is able to be performed in a number of different ways by a printer at their shop and this includes recycling paper, water, and inks along with other waste related to the operations of the company.
Do You Have Any Green Certifications?
Since there are so many different certifications available to print companies, ask your prospective printer about their industry certifications and if they are up-to-date
Want to make sure your green printing dreams are being properly put into action by your print partner? Follow the steps in this article.
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