Will the Green REVOLUTION Kill Gutenberg?
June 1, 2009
Printed advertising media is very important in marketing all types of products and services. From the esteemable business card to the hardworking color catalog, we see print everywhere we go. The main challenge is to choose printing which uses sustainable practices.
Print shops can be heavy users of nasty solvents, but printers like Vision Graphics have increased print production while cutting solvent usage dramatically. Most printers today use soy or vegetable based inks, a great improvement from past practices. Print shops also generate huge amounts of paper and other waste, much of that is now in the recycling loop.
Paper production and shipping can contribute to ecological damage to forests, rivers, estuaries and other critical environments. Paper manufacturers have improved production techniques to use less energy and water resources. When possible, select papers which are domestically produced and contain a high percentage of post consumer recycled fiber. Be part of this solution by recycling your own office paper. The international non-profit organization Forest Stewardship Council (FSC.org) certifies sustainable growing and harvesting procedures and promotes fair trade practices for forest resources. Be sure to consider FSC certified papers for your next project.