Spreading the sustainability message (part 3)

by FESPA | 03/09/2018
Spreading the sustainability message (part 3)

In part three of a series, Laurel Brunner discusses the importance of policy statements and effective waste management processes in increasing environmental awareness in the print industry.

In the first part of this series, we discussed getting industry associations to encourage more sustainability awareness and we put the three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle at the top of the list.  However, sector specific environmental impact and sustainability policy statements require much more time. Graphics industry sectors like newspapers, magazines, book and packaging production require robust environmental guidance from their associations. Unfortunately, it is very absent from their websites and what’s worse is that this is a missed opportunity. A high-profile position on the environment assists the graphics industry to take ownership and lead the environmental impact conversation. In addition, it is a useful reference for countering the negativity that is usually associated with print in all its forms.

Sector specific policy statements can help to codify key sustainability concerns for members. We have discussed the three Rs and have suggested adding energy emissions to the list of things to consider. Next on the list should be proposals for improving waste management across the supply chain, with ideas on how to reduce waste and use it as a resource.

Paper is possibly the biggest source of waste for both the printing and publishing industries. Healthy paper recycling supply chains are the lifeblood of numerous paper mills, in particular those that produce newsprint. However, modern printing techniques, new ink recipes and using coatings and varnishes and other embellishments can make it harder to recycle materials that use deinking methods. This does not mean industry associations should discourage digital printing and embellishment technologies, far from it. It is up to the paper industry to keep up with printing advances. However, industry associations should advise their members to acknowledge the importance of printed paper’s deinkability and be aware of the type of paper it can be recycled into.

Measures that can help people manage waste includes process efficiency and colour management. Getting accurate colour early in the production process requires awareness of colour management, device profiling, frequent proofing and discussion with clients to guarantee that the colour they want is the colour they have. This part of waste management is a way of improving time management.
 
To conclude, we now have a basic list of suggestions to consider in an environmental policy statement for associations. The three Rs, energy emissions and waste management are only the beginning, however all three topics can differ in their details. This is dependent on what sector we are discussing. If we work to a common framework, we may see an overall improvement in the environmental awareness in the graphics industry.

Source: This article was produced by the Verdigris project, an industry initiative intended to raise awareness of print’s positive environmental impact. This commentary helps printing companies keep up to date with environmental standards, and how environmentally friendly business management can help improve their bottom lines. Verdigris is supported by the following companies: Agfa Graphics, Spindrift.click, EFI, FESPA, HP, Kodak, Kornit Digital, Ricoh, Splash PR, Unity Publishing and Xeikon.
 

by FESPA Back to News

Topics

Interested in joining our community?

Enquire today about joining your local FESPA Association or FESPA Direct

Enquire Today

Recent news

Streamlining personalisation with tech: Insights from the SmartHub Conference 2025 speakers
Personalisation

Streamlining personalisation with tech: Insights from the SmartHub Conference 2025 speakers

Personalisation Experience 2025 (6 – 9 May 2025, Messe Berlin, Germany) is running its inaugural SmartHub Conference from 6 – 8 May 2025.

02-05-2025
Special Effects in DTF: How Neon Inks Are Making Apparel Pop
Inks

Special Effects in DTF: How Neon Inks Are Making Apparel Pop

Neon fluorescent inks are the latest innovation in DTF printing, offering vibrant, eye-catching effects under both daylight and UV light, giving apparel decorators a competitive edge. Testing shows good wash durability, though market perception of added value is still developing. With increasing adoption and ongoing technological advancements, neon represents a significant upgrade for creative customisation.

01-05-2025
Unlocking Growth Opportunities in the Printed Personalised Apparel Industry
Personalisation

Unlocking Growth Opportunities in the Printed Personalised Apparel Industry

The printed personalised apparel industry is booming, projected to reach $10.1 billion by 2030. Driven by consumer desire for self-expression and branding needs, technological advancements like DTG/DTF and e-commerce integration are key. Sustainability, eco-friendly materials, and on-demand printing are crucial growth drivers. Businesses leveraging these trends, including AI and social media, have significant commercial potential.

01-05-2025
How to grow your business with white ink applications
Inks

How to grow your business with white ink applications

Opaque white ink is revolutionising signage, vehicle graphics, wallcoverings, short-run and wood packaging, and window blinds by enhancing vibrancy and clarity. This enables printers to offer high-demand, standout products, boosting profit margins. HP Latex white ink applications and their large format printing solutions will be showcased at FESPA 2025 in Berlin.

30-04-2025