Green printing is often overlooked by companies as a necessary element in going green. Sometimes this is due to the misconception that once a company has chosen to print on recycled paper, there is nothing else to be done to keep collaterally green. However, it is now becoming industry standard for paper to have at least a partially recycled content, and even if your company has printed recycled stationary, envelopes or business cards, it really does not end there.

1. Being eco-friendly

Printers can use inks or processes which make the use of recycled paper have almost zero ecological value. Some of the things that can make your recycled printing not green are coatings and film laminations which are at the top of the list, including using petroleum and solvent based inks. Why use recycled media if it is just going to be slathered with oil?

2. Be responsible

The benefits of using a green printer go beyond making a standing commitment to being green and leaving a smaller carbon footprint behind. Of course going green makes your company become more responsible and feel better about it’s choices, but often times “feeling good” comes at a price. Not with Green Printing. Water based inks and UV curable ink is comparable in price and sometimes a little less expensive than regular products which are more vendible.

3. The local environmental

Printing using water-based and UV curable inks means prints come out odourless and dry, so no nasty smells in your area, and no special ventilation required. Prints can be used straight away, and have a long life span without the need for laminating – lowering both material and transportation (weight) costs.

4. The wider community

Additionally, using a printer more concerned with their carbon foot print comes with the benefit of having a printer who is more involved with the process and who cares deeply about their product and environment. Green Printers who are Forest Stewardship Council ™ certified have taken the extra step to adhere to a chain of custody from forest to print. This proves that the fibre in the printable media comes from well-managed forests and other controlled sources. The FSC balances environmental, economic and social aspects of forestry. FSC is supported by many of the world’s leading campaigning organisations. 

5. Establish good PR

Choosing a green printer shows consumers your company is corporately responsible – not only for commercial value. Showing your commitment to the environment is a highly rewarding way to connecting with the local and wider community.