Let’s make sustainability in printing a norm!

As society’s collective conscience awakens to the urgent need for eco-friendly practices, the printing industry is forging a path towards a more sustainable future through the embrace of circular economy principles. This paradigm shift marks a new era of sustainability in printing, one that not only safeguards our planet but also redefines how we perceive and utilize print materials.

Circular economy principles advocate for reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, which dovetail perfectly with the printing industry’s potential for transformation. It encompasses not just about recycling paper or reducing ink usage, but a holistic approach that integrates various elements of sustainable printing, such as: eco-friendly inks and materials, waste reduction, recycling initiatives, digital transformation and sustainable packaging.

The shift towards a circular economy in printing is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s also a smart economic move. Sustainable practices can lead to cost savings, reduced energy consumption, improved brand reputation, and access to a growing market of eco-conscious consumers.

While the printing industry’s transformation towards sustainability is encouraging, there is much work to be done. Collaboration among printers, manufacturers, consumers, and policy makers is vital to drive the adoption of circular economy principles across the board. Printers should continue to invest in research and development, seeking innovative solutions that minimize environmental impacts. Additionally, educating consumers about the importance of sustainable printing practices can foster a more eco-conscious approach to printing materials.

Printing industry is trying its best to embrace sustainability. Sustainability will characterise drupa’s agenda next year. hubergroup has recently launched new

solvent-based, food-safe ink series for the Asian market. Herma has launched a sustainable self-adhesive label material. Megohm Digipack has installed JETSCI Colornovo SAPFC Digital Label Press as a step toward sustainability in label printing. There is so much happening all around.

As consumers increasingly demand sustainability from all aspects of life, including printing and packaging, the printing industry’s commitment to circular economy principles positions it as a leader in the global sustainability movement. It’s time to celebrate the industry’s progress and work together to ensure that this new era of sustainability in printing becomes the norm, not the exception.

Sonal Khurana
sonal@smediagroup.in