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Getting
started is as easy as ordering some paper. And, you'll be
surprised to find out how much of the stock and containers
you are already using are made from post-consumer waste and
recycled materials. For example, over 76 percent of all
corrugated fiberboard is recovered for recycling. And the
paper industry as a whole recovers over 50 percent of paper
annually. Not only does recycling save trees, but it takes
40 percent less energy when a mill uses recycled paper than
it does to use fresh lumber -- that also means less
pollutants released into the air. And, in case you haven't
noticed, recycled paper doesn't mean you have to see the
fibers in the sheet anymore. Modern non-toxic bleaching
methods allow for bright white and solid color stock in all
weights and sizes.
But the
paper is only the first step... There are vegetable oil
based inks, safer solvents that replace poisonous chemicals,
low-watt bulbs that produce bright work areas for print
shops (with less energy consumption), rooftop solar and wind
electric generators, and the list goes on and on...
Start small
and grow as you become more familiar with the process,
materials and economics of environmental printing. And don't
be intimidated by all of the certifications and associations
out there. A straight-forward approach where you communicate
the facts and options to your clients can be just as
important as posting a symbol on a page. This website was
created as a primer and resource for printers and designers
interested in going green. |