When most people think about the print industry, they rarely associate it with sustainability. Rather, what comes to mind is usually swaths of cut-down trees that are never replaced, with logs being transported to a factory that emits harmful pollutants. However, this scenario is far from the truth.
The print industry has always been more environmentally conscious than people think, and especially in recent years, it has been developing new standards and processes to help protect the earth.
Here are some of the changes we’ve been seeing in the print industry that are cutting emissions and contributing to a better future for all:
Ethical Sourcing: A Renewable Supply
One of the biggest misconceptions about the print industry is that natural, historic forests are being cut down to create paper. In reality, paper trees are planted and grown, like a crop, to create a steady, renewable supply. Once these trees are cut down to make paper, the stumps are left to feed the local flora and fauna, and new trees begin to grow through replanting and natural regeneration.
Recycled Paper: Reducing Waste
Paper is the cornerstone of printing, so it’s crucial to source it responsibly. Many printing companies make a point to offer recycled paper options to their customers, derived from previously used paper. These efforts not only reduce demand for virgin trees, but also require less water and energy during production.
At Walsworth, we incorporate recycled material into our printing process whenever possible. For example, all the boards used to make hardcover book covers are made with recycled materials. In addition, most of our packaging is made with recycled fiber which incorporates at least 35% post-consumer material.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified Paper
As an alternative to recycled paper, Walsworth offers Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified options. FSC is an organization dedicated to ensuring responsible forest management. By choosing FSC-certified paper, you contribute to sustainable forestry practices that protect ecosystems and wildlife for future generations.
Vegetable-Based Inks: A Biodegradable Alternative
Historically, printing inks relied on petroleum-based ingredients, which are not renewable and are difficult to dispose of in a sustainable way. Many printing companies, including Walsworth, offer vegetable oil-based inks as a more sustainable solution.
Derived from renewable resources like soybeans, corn and other vegetables, these inks are biodegradable, meaning they decompose naturally after use, minimizing environmental impact and making them easy to recycle. Additionally, these inks emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, resulting in lower overall emissions.
Waste Reduction: Recycling To Minimizing Footprint
Waste minimization is another pillar of sustainable printing. The print industry has made strides in promoting responsible recycling practices. Special care is taking during the printing process to recycle paper, packaging and printing plates so these materials can be reused in future prints.
Walsworth alone recycles nearly 1 million pounds of aluminum and 30 million pounds of paper and fiber-based products annually. Our manufacturing experts are always looking for new opportunities to recycle and incorporate recycled materials in the printing process.
Energy Efficiency: Powering a Sustainable Future
Energy consumption is another area targeted by the print industry’s sustainability efforts. Across the supply chain and through production, companies are committed to finding new ways to reduce energy waste. For example, our major paper supplier has developed processes to capture and reuse excess heat energy generated during the papermaking process, using it to help power their plant and heat nearby communities.
The Results Are In!
We’re proud to say that these environmental efforts are proving effective. Over the past 10 years, our efforts to create a greener operation have led to a 60% reduction in volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions, and a 99% reduction in hazardous air pollutant emissions. However, that doesn’t mean our work is done. Walsworth’s experts are always working to find cleaner, more efficient processes to minimize our environmental impact and protect our planet.
Why Partner with Walsworth for Sustainable Printing?
Choosing Walsworth as your printing partner means more than just creating high-quality printed materials. You’re partnering with a company dedicated to sustainability. We provide a diverse range of eco-friendly options, encompassing paper, inks and printing equipment. We continuously innovate and explore new avenues to minimize our environmental impact.
If you’re looking for a printing partner that aligns with your values, Walsworth is ready to help create your next project. Contact us today to explore our sustainable printing practices and how we can help you achieve your printing goals while safeguarding the environment. Together, let’s print a future that’s bright, sustainable and filled with vibrant possibilities.
