There’s been an increased focus on print sustainability across the last decade, with many offices and individuals becoming mindful of the amount of paper they use.
Recycled paper, double-sided printing, and minimizing the use of physical documents has become the norm , and with good reason; approximately 1 billion trees worth of paper is still thrown away annually in the US.
Yet what’s often missing from the printing discussion that deserves attention is eco-friendly ink.
The environmental impact of ink is a crucial aspect of print sustainability, with traditional printer inks having a hidden environmental cost.
They often contain chemicals that are released into the atmosphere during printing. The production of printer ink consumes significant resources and contributes to pollution.
The environmental impact of traditional ink
The most widely used type of ink traditionally used in printing is petroleum-based ink. It’s made by combining petroleum distillates with other chemicals to create liquid ink.
Just like vehicle fuel, extraction of petroleum contributes to the depletion of natural resources as it’s a non-renewable resource.
The process generates a large amount of greenhouse gas emissions, and the chemicals used for its production can be harmful for humans and the environment. Approximately 1.3 billion inkjet cartridges are used globally every year, with less than 30% being recycled.
Why ink matters when it comes to print sustainability
The production of inks can consume resources and contributes to pollution. Inks can contain harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or hazardous air pollutants (HAP) that are released during the atmosphere.
The use of eco-friendly friendly inks can drastically reduce the negative environmental consequences of printing.
Soy, vegetable, and water-based inks are becoming increasingly popular for their lower VOC emissions and reduced environmental impact. These are biodegradable and less harmful to human health and the environment.
Types of eco-friendly ink
When it comes to choosing inks that are gentler on the environment, consider the following:
Soy-based ink
Made from renewable soybeans, these inks are an excellent alternative to traditional petroleum-based inks. They offer vibrant colors and are easily recyclable.
Vegetable-based ink
Derived from plant sources like linseed or corn, these inks are a sustainable choice. They have lower VOC emissions and biodegrade more easily.
Water-based ink
These inks contain fewer solvents and are considered one of the most eco-friendly options. They have minimal impact on the environment and human health.
Recycled ink
Some companies offer recycled ink options, made from reclaimed or remanufactured ink cartridges. These inks contribute to a circular economy by reducing the need for new raw materials.
How to choose eco-friendly ink
When choosing eco-friendly inks, look for certifications that validate their environmental claims.
For example, inks that meet the criteria of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Certified Product Standard are generally considered more environmentally responsible.
These certifications ensure that the ink’s production and sourcing adhere to specific sustainability criteria.
The choice of ink should align with your specific printing requirements. Consider the type of printing and intended use. Different eco-friendly inks may be more suitable for certain applications.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to ink suppliers or manufacturers (or your local PaperCut reseller) for guidance.
Printer ink disposal and recycling improve print sustainability
Proper disposal of printer ink cartridges is vital to reduce environmental harm. Many ink cartridges end up in landfills, contributing to electronic waste.
Recycling programs for ink cartridges are widely available, and many manufacturers offer return options for used cartridges. By recycling, you not only reduce waste but also conserve valuable resources.
Print volume reduction strategies that lessen the environmental impact of ink
Reducing print volume is another effective way to minimize the environmental impact of printing.
Implementing print management solutions, such as those offered by PaperCut, can help organizations track and control their printing habits.
This not only saves money but also reduces paper and ink consumption. Reducing the number of unnecessary prints and encouraging double-sided printing are simple yet effective strategies for responsible printing.
Moving towards printing sustainability
Taking steps towards sustainable printing, from choosing eco-friendly inks, recycling and reducing printing will help reduce your environmental impact.
Being aware of the environmental consequences of traditional inks and choosing eco-friendly inks when applicable can be a great way to commit to a greener future, but it’s not the only thing you can do…
Print management software allows you to take control over your print landscape and guide how your end-users print day-to-day.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to reducing your environmental footprint by using PaperCut – but to make the most of that, you need to get your print environment set up with PaperCut MF or PaperCut Hive first!
We’re here to help make that step seamless: chat to our friendly team today and you’ll be on your way to reducing paper waste in your business, as well as cutting costs!
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