Ways Of Creating Digital Printing That Is Eco Friendly

By Angela Thomas


In line with environmental conservation guidelines which are being adopted by many countries all over the world, many industries have made an effort to be more environment conscious in their operations. The printing industry is no exception. The general trend is to move away from practices which degrade the environment and adopt those which create a more positive impact. There are a number of ways through which you can create digital printing that is eco friendly.

One of the changes which are being implemented involve the types of ink used. The conventional ink is known to release volatile organic compounds, VOCs into the environment. When these compounds interact with nitrogen oxide in the presence of sunlight a layer of ozone is formed within lower atmospheric zones. This ozone layer (unlike the protective layer higher up in the atmosphere) attracts dust particles and forms smog.

The use of recycled paper is a step which can be undertaken by virtually any press. Recycled paper uses less water to manufacture, results in fewer effluents and most importantly, reduces the rate of deforestation. Chlorine is commonly used in bleaching this kind of paper but has been shown to have detrimental effects to the environment. Many manufacturing plants have now developed processes which do not require chlorine.

There are a number of other raw materials which can be recycled or reused. One of the inputs which may be recycled easily is water. In a firm which is operating efficiently, up to 65% of water can be recycled. This is likely to translate into huge savings as relate to operational costs. Other materials can also be recycled to various extents. Such may include, waste paper, ink and aluminum plates.

Ensure you invest in energy efficiency systems. Reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and increase the use of renewable energy sources. If you are to buy new equipment, make sure it has a faster running speed which is likely to help you achieve more output for every kilowatt of electricity you consume. Subject all your printers and machines to regular servicing to ensure that they remain efficient.

The firm should reduce the use of paper in handling proof or avoid altogether. The good news is that many firms are now using email for this. Customers are engaged electronically and can easily keep track of their proofs as they move through various stages. Eliminating the use of paper not only conserves the environment but also increases efficiency. Indirect benefits such as reduced need for gas to drive to the site are also realized.

There are changes which have been adopted in the screening of fabrics. One area in which this is taking place is in the pretreatment process. The conventional process involves using chemicals which contain significant amounts of urea. The urea is broken down during steaming to produce carbon dioxide. A special foam which does not require the inclusion of the harmful compounds is now increasingly being used.

There is no doubt that the possibilities in environmental conservation are limitless. It is true that some changes are a bit expensive to implement but the returns are tremendous both to individual businesses and the environment. There should be increased usage of modern technology which helps to increase efficiency and reduce wastage.




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