Why Sustainability is Crucial for Commercial Printing Companies

There is no question of whether or not the environment is a hot button issue at the moment. Ecologically minded politicians, responsible businesses and consumers alike are all calling for corporate practices that reduce pollution and emphasize long-term sustainability. In the past, the popular perception of the commercial printing industry may have been one of waste and excess, as people looked to industry mainstays like petroleum-based inks, deforestation and more. Now, however, it has become clear that a commitment to sustainability is necessary for commercial printing companies to succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace. This is true for two reasons: First, because consumers demand it. And secondly, because paper, petroleum and more are finite resources that will eventually be depleted if not carefully monitored and managed.

Positive consumer perception is integral to the success of any company and as more and more Americans focus on “going green,” adopting environmentally friendly business practices is becoming a huge part of creating that positive image within the community. According to a recent industry survey, more than a quarter of commercial printers already identify themselves as environmentally responsible somewhere in their advertisements or company literature. To that end, many printers are choosing to obtain certifications from independent groups that hold their members to certain “green” standards, such as the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) or SGP (Sustainable Green Print Partnership), as well as local groups like the City of Los Angeles Green Business Program. Becoming certified by these environmental groups can help offer consumers valuable peace of mind, and will lend credence to any company’s claims of ecological responsibility.

Another reason why sustainability is crucial to commercial printers everywhere is the fact that, by its very nature, printing companies are working with limited resources. Paper, petroleum-based inks and more are nonrenewable resources, so it’s important to find ways to reinvent and re-imagine the options available to the professional printer in the twenty-first century. For example, vegetable-based inks are gaining in popularity, as they are both renewable and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Similarly, offering customers the option of printing on recycled paper is far more commonplace than it once was.

With a bit of effort and ingenuity, it’s easy to find ways to make your commercial printing business more sustainable and ecologically sound, and in the end both your customers – and the earth – will thank you for your commitment to going green!