SUSTAINABLE PRINTERS
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Innovations boosting sustainability Print vendors, suppliers and resellers are in an excellent position to start facilitating a rapid change in the marketplace. Already, many have begun investing in new tools and services designed to minimise waste, reduce emissions and limit the number of dangerous chemicals used in printing. Alex says his company is now working on delivering as many sustainable options as possible to clients. The brand offers water- based ink options, intended to eliminate the excessive levels of PVC components and plasticisers in common, plastisol inks, which can lead to environmental and health issues around the world. However, he notes that ink options are only the first step. Some water- based inks, though greener, are not suitable for certain garments. They require more carbon to cure, and cannot print easily on dark coloured garments. As such, businesses need to consider what kinds of materials they’re printing on too. While fast-fashion solutions in the garment world might be cheaper, they contribute to landfill growth. Luxury solutions offer greater sustainability and longevity. Organic cottons and natural fibres such as bamboo offer a safer, and equally comfortable solution for fashion brands. “Your careful choices of garment and ink might not be as meaningful if your order already contains waste,” adds Alex. “If you’re printing company shirts and uniforms, find out how many you need in which sizes first. This will ensure you’re not wasting unnecessary
ink, fabric and energy.” Chris notes that partners and sellers can offer companies greater options for sustainability in the form of subscription- based services for ink systems, refillable tank devices and managed services. Not only are these services eco-friendlier, but they can help to reduce cost and improve efficiency in business environments. Richard adds that businesses will need to help companies rethink their printing strategy from a holistic perspective, using the right technology. “Research has found that if all businesses were to switch from laser printers to inkjet printers, it would reduce carbon emissions from the printing industry worldwide by over 52%,” he says. Leading companies in the printing space are investing in research and development for more environmentally friendly technology, providing brands with more options to work with throughout the entire printing process. How important is cost? While companies are under more pressure than ever to invest in sustainable practices, they’re also facing reduced budgets and financial issues caused by an uncertain economy. As a result, many businesses are reluctant to explore the sustainable landscape fully in fear of higher prices. As Richard notes, the best strategy for printing resellers and partners may be to help companies view the benefits that sustainable solutions have from a financial perspective. “Consider the reduced energy consumption, ink consumption and intervention requirements offered by inkjet,” he says. “What to some translates as reduced energy bills, ink costs and service engineer visits will to others translate as fewer CO2 emissions, burdens on the recycling process and reduced travel investments.” By offering managed print services, Epson reduces much of the time and cost burdens associated with managing and owning print solutions, to help companies lower the impact on their bottom line. Alex acknowledges that carefully chosen sustainable strategies in printing will always affect the cost of the finished product. Some solutions will enable companies to save money, while others may appear to drive up costs initially. However, partners and vendors are working on strategies to reduce the overall issue of expense. “An example of how we balance cost with sustainability is the introduction
Chris Bates business unit manager – print, UK and Ireland TD SYNNEX
uk.tdsynnex.com
Organic cottons and natural fibres such as bamboo offer a safer, and equally comfortable solution for fashion brands. “ ”
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