Printing Industry is Embracing Environmental Practices

by Kathy Monear

April 21st, 2009

As Earth Day approaches, it’s great news that our print manufacturing industry has responded to the cry for environmental awareness. Just 6 months ago it was difficult to find printers that were certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, the two renown organizations protecting and managing our forest. Today, it is rare that a printer does not have either one or both certifications, and if they do not, they are awaiting approval.

Working with printers that have the FSC or SFI certification reinforces our commitment to replanting the forests for the future. Printers are also blitzing alternative energy sources in their manufacturing process such as wind power and recycling the waste by-products from the manufacturing process which will lower the carbon imprint placed on the environment.

The Paper industry is also responding to the call by making papers available with 10% Post Consumer Waste the norm, not the exception, and pricing them at affordable levels so they are available for all our print needs. The selection of papers with 30% to 100% Post Consumer Waste fibers has increased scientifically with new paper lines being manufactured using stone, recycled plastics and some papers with seeds.

The Print industry is listening and responding to the call from consumers to be more efficient, environmentally friendly and aware of how they impact the world around us.