Printer's Tip

Environmental tips for publishers

Environmental sustainability is everyone's responsibility. Many companies, including printers, paper mills, and publishers, have been working toward cleaner processes and reduced waste. If you're looking for ways to become more environmentally friendly in your everyday work procedures, you may find the following tips helpful:

• Encourage readers to recycle your magazine once they're finished reading it by placing the "Please Recycle" logo on your publication.


• Create clean mail lists. Having a clean mail list saves on distribution costs and reduces the amount of labels that have to be printed. Cutting back on the amount of paper and ink used also reduces print counts and wasted copies.


• Choose to print on paper with recycled content. Even though recycled may cost more, the retail price will only be affected a small amount, and studies show consumers will be willing to pay a little more if they know you're helping the environment.


• Choose inks that contain soy. These inks have less petroleum and fewer chemicals than traditional inks and are safer for the environment.


• Eliminate hard proofs by participating in a proofless workflow. In proofless workflows, proofs are uploaded digitally and sent electronically. Cutting back on the amount of paper proofs can significantly reduce the amount of paper wasted.


• Request invoices to be sent electronically. Most printers are able to provide bills in many different forms, especially if the customer requests it. Also, talk to your printer about electronic payment options instead of mailing a paper check.


• If your publication is printed on recycled paper, make your readers aware by using the appropriate symbol and stating, "Printed on recycled paper."