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As more businesses shift to environmentally-friendly policies, it makes sense for printing companies to use more sustainable methods. They can still produce high-quality products and save on energy and lower the carbon footprint. By using recyclable materials and eco-friendly printers, companies can follow innovative techniques in sustainable printing to protect the environment.
For decades, businesses have been using printable ink that contains chemicals that potentially harm the environment, including water and air pollution. Many ink companies currently produce water-based inks, which are free of toxins and need less water for cleanup afterwards. Another good option are vegetable-based and soy-based inks.. One reputable and eco-friendly brand is One Stroke, which makes the Soymax series.
Most ink cartridges are non-biodegradeable. One solution is to purchase reusable ink cartridges. Some manufacturers allow customers to buy the refillable ink through their website or you can take the cartridges to a third-party company to get refilled.
Companies that print their own materials should buy the most energy-efficient printers available. To print brochures and booklets, use printers that feature double-sided printing. Wide-formating printing works great for retail posters and trade show signs and banners and saves energy in the process.
Flexographic printers are the most sustainable printers as they print on all types of recyclable materials. Their modern elastomer sleeves produce excellent quality images and require less cleanup than plate printing methods. Digital printing also reduces waste by only printing by demand and it helps businesses lower their carbon footprint. LED UV printers print at a very high speed but use less energy than traditional printers since they cure the ink. Makers of these printers include Vanguard, Direct Color Systems and Mimaki.
Businesses use an average of 10,000 sheets of paper per year. To reduce waste, they should primarily use recyclable paper. Printing companies need to offer products made from recyclable paper and sustainable fabrics and plastics. Consider participating in a carbon-based paper program where your business uses sustainable paper products and follows carbon emission standards to decide how much paper to produce in a quarter or year. Recyclable paper and plastics should also be used for packaging.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about innovative techniques in sustainable printing, please contact one of our representatives at Brand RPM.