Sustainability: key to environment-friendly and cost-efficient industry

Sustainability in printing has become the latest buzzword in the industry. The goal is to promote ecological balance, conserve resources, reduce waste, and make environmentally responsible choices throughout the entire printing lifecycle. Recycled paper and vegetable-based inks are becoming common towards reducing the ecological footprint. More recently, manroland Goss has innovated a bio-based barrier that protects food from external influences while keeping it fresh, as a part of a government-funded GREEN research project which is working towards providing a remedy for plastic consumption in future.

Machinery manufacturers are developing energy-efficient printing equipments. Workflows are making the production processes efficient and faster as well.

Minimizing waste generated during the printing process is also crucial for sustainability and printers are trying to use lean production methods and reducing overruns. Digital printing is also helping reduce waste. But, there is still so much more to be done in this regard.

Raising awareness about sustainability practices can lead to more responsible decisions and so printing equipment and raw materials manufacturers are educating clients about eco-friendly options and encouraging them to choose sustainable materials to create a positive impact. By embracing sustainability in printing, printers can contribute to a more environmentally friendly industry and align their business with the growing demand for eco-conscious products and services.

The printing industry relies on a range of raw materials, including paper, ink, blankets, rollers, various substrates, etc. For quite some time, the industry is facing challenges due to rise in prices of these consumables. Disruptions in the supply chain, such as natural disasters, trade conflicts, and transportation issues, have lead to shortages and higher prices. Besides, stricter environmental regulations or taxes on certain raw materials have increased production costs.

To cope with these challenges, printers can work with multiple suppliers, enter into long-term contracts to secure a steady supply and invest in advanced printing technologies and equipment to improve efficiency and reduce waste, ultimately cutting costs. Besides, adopting sustainable practices not only helps the environment but can also lead to cost savings in the long run.

Sonal Khurana
sonal@smediagroup.in