How To Achieve Digital Printing That Is Eco Friendly

By Angela Thomas


There have been sustained efforts geared towards adopting more environmental friendly industrial solutions all over the world. The printing industry is one of those affected. Printing firms are now moving towards digital printing that is eco friendly and abandoning decade old practices which have been shown to have a negative impact on the environment. We will explore some of the ways in which you can adopt to this new order of things in this industry.

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.

Another change which is experienced increased uptake is increased use of recycled paper. Compared to virgin paper, recycled paper requires less water to produce. It is also associated with production of less effluent and more importantly, it causes less deforestation. For many years, chlorine has been used in the bleaching process but this is now changing. Modern manufacturing methods produce chlorine-free water.

Recycling of other raw materials should also be optimized. Water, which is used in large quantities can be recycled and reused. In efficient printing firms, it has been shown that more than 65% of the water can be recycled. Other materials which should be collected and reused include aluminum plates, waste paper and ink. Of course, it is important that you make an effort to cut down on this waste as well.

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.

There is a need to reduce the use of paper as relates to the handling of proofs. The increased use of emails is making this a reality in most printing presses. Through emails, customers can easily make changes and track their work as it goes through all the stages. Such changes have greatly helped in environmental conservation as well as increase efficiency of the process.

With regard to digital printing involving fabrics, one of the areas in which improvements can be made is in the pretreatment process. Traditionally, this stage has involved the use of chemicals which contain high levels of urea. When the fabrics are steamed, carbon dioxide, a well-known greenhouse gas is released into the environment. An alternative to this method is to use a special foam which achieves which is less harmful to the environment.

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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