David Savastano, Editor01.21.20
In recent years, there has been increasing emphasis on sustainability throughout the world of industry, and the ink business is no exception. Consumers are becoming more interested in purchasing environmentally friendly products, which drives brand owners’ decisions when it comes to sourcing materials. This, in turn, is impacting packaging, publications, textiles or other end products, which is where the ink industry comes in.
In “The Ink Industry and the Environment,” ink manufacturers and association leaders discuss sustainability and recyclability, as well as the mandates they face from customers and governments. There are a lot of factors involved, and it takes plenty of planning to reach the necessary goals.
To begin with, the ingredients the ink industry needs are not infinite, and developing solutions from renewable resources is essential. Being able to recycle and reuse these products in a cradle-to-cradle approach is both good for environmental and makes economic sense. Some companies are also emphasizing supply chain traceability.
The concept of sustainability also encompasses production methods. Ink industry leaders spoke about the importance of being efficient with resources ranging from water to energy while practicing safety and reducing waste.
Another area of interest is the recyclability of products, as well as their biodegradability and compostability. Ink manufacturers note they are receiving increased requests from customers and other downstream users. Ink industry leaders note that while some ingredients are within the inks themselves are not particularly recyclable and/or compostable, they are coming up with solutions to minimize the impact of the inks on recycling.
Ultimately, developing environmentally friendly products is responsible as well as good business. The good news is that the ink industry has taken these concerns to heart, and is developing new products and processes to meet these goals.
In “The Ink Industry and the Environment,” ink manufacturers and association leaders discuss sustainability and recyclability, as well as the mandates they face from customers and governments. There are a lot of factors involved, and it takes plenty of planning to reach the necessary goals.
To begin with, the ingredients the ink industry needs are not infinite, and developing solutions from renewable resources is essential. Being able to recycle and reuse these products in a cradle-to-cradle approach is both good for environmental and makes economic sense. Some companies are also emphasizing supply chain traceability.
The concept of sustainability also encompasses production methods. Ink industry leaders spoke about the importance of being efficient with resources ranging from water to energy while practicing safety and reducing waste.
Another area of interest is the recyclability of products, as well as their biodegradability and compostability. Ink manufacturers note they are receiving increased requests from customers and other downstream users. Ink industry leaders note that while some ingredients are within the inks themselves are not particularly recyclable and/or compostable, they are coming up with solutions to minimize the impact of the inks on recycling.
Ultimately, developing environmentally friendly products is responsible as well as good business. The good news is that the ink industry has taken these concerns to heart, and is developing new products and processes to meet these goals.
