The printing industry goes back hundreds of years and has evolved tremendously during this time, becoming a key part in the way we communicate and share information. However, there are many common misconceptions around the printing and paper industry which have, in recent years, deterred consumers – leaving a lasting effect on their buying habits. We believe it is important to be aware of the facts when it comes to the printing and paper industry, so we want to blast some of the myths out of the water!
Is paper bad for the environment?
In actual fact, the answer is no, paper, made from the wood of trees, is a natural and renewable source. To regulate its use, there are many certification schemes in place, including the well-known Forest Stewardship Council (FSC ®) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC ™) – which The Printed Word use to source paper materials. Schemes, such as the FSC ® and PEFC ™, guarantee the paper used by the printing and other industries comes from a sustainable forest – meaning not only are the forests well taken care of but that they are managed in such a way that ensures their life for generations to follow.
Sustainability Facts:
- Paper is made from wood, a truly renewable and sustainable resource.*
- Forest certification ensures wood comes from well-managed forests.*
- Responsible wood, pulp and paper production ensures healthy growing forests.*
- Between 2005 and 2015, European forests grew by 44,000 square kilometres – that’s an area bigger than Switzerland!**
Is print and paper bad for the environment?
You may be surprised to know that paper is one of the most recycled products in the entire world, with recycling rates in some regions ranging from 70-75%. The implementation of effective recycling schemes helps minimise the amount of paper waste in landfills – with the aim of eliminating this altogether.
For recycling to remain a consistent cycle however, the creation of new paper is required. Throughout the recycling process, the fibres in paper become worn out and shorter and eventually too weak to form a new sheet of paper. New sustainably sourced paper is essential to continue this process.
Doesn’t everyone prefer digital over print?
There’s no denying that digital has taken the world by storm – changing the way we work, communicate, research, and learn; not to mention how businesses advertise, promote, and market. We are all completely inundated with digital information in the form of emails, websites, and social media – so when we receive a physical piece of print, we remember it. After all, connecting with others on an emotional level makes us much more likely to withhold the information.
Print is Sustainable
The printing process is always improving – continually striving to become more environmentally-friendly. Find out more about how The Printed Word helps to protect the environment or contact us today to find out more about our eco-friendly services.
Sources:
* Article ‘Paper is one of the few truly sustainable products’ from Two Sides
