During 2021, 14 million tonnes of municipal waste was sent to UK landfill (GOV.UK).
To slow down the damaging effects of overconsumption on the environment, we need to be mindful of how we consume things. Consuming less, choosing higher-quality products, and using products made from recycled materials are key ways to slow down the damaging effects that overconsumption has on the environment, society, and our finances.
Each of us plays a crucial role in tackling the various problems caused by waste, whether it’s wasting electricity, food, water, using single-use plastics, or discarding paper and cardboard carelessly.
Businesses, in particular, can make a significant impact by supporting the circular economy, where resources are used sustainably. That’s why we’ve put in a lot of effort to make our factory more sustainable. We’ve reduced our energy consumption by installing solar panels and we are also using energy-efficient LED lighting.
These actions go beyond just being environmentally responsible; they’re part of our strategic approach to show that business growth and environmental care can go hand in hand. By doing our part, we aim not only to reduce our impact on the environment but also to inspire others to join in creating a more sustainable and balanced future for everyone.
FESPA Printing Association
Not only do we work to keep the factory as sustainable as possible but we also invest in environmental education and events to find out ways we can continually reduce our energy consumption and waste.
We’re part of the FESPA Printing Association which advocates for a greener printing industry and we regularly attend training events such as their sustainable waste academy.
The sustainable waste academy covers the following topics:
- Consumer awareness
- Greenwashing
- Circular economies
- Waste & recycling Industry Infrastructure
- Material options and waste considerations
- Creating a sustainable brand
- Increase sales
As a trade printer, we collaborate with print brokers and other printing businesses to become industry partners. Visit the FESPA website for print industry networking and events.
Sustainable printing and waste reduction
Types of waste specific to the printing industry include:
- Energy waste associated with running factories, printing presses and related equipment
- The disposal of outdated or non-functional printing machinery
- Plastic packaging used for protecting and transporting printed materials
- Remnants of inks and toners that are not fully utilised during the printing process
- Defective or misprinted sheets that don’t meet quality standards
- Leftover or outdated printed materials
The printing industry has many opportunities to reduce waste. By implementing energy-saving practices, properly disposing of outdated machinery, exploring alternative packaging materials, optimising ink and toner usage, minimising defective sheets, and reducing excess stock, printing businesses can contribute to a more sustainable print industry.
Let’s collaborate to make the print industry greener. Contact us today if you would like to discuss your next wide-format print project.
