Being environmentally friendly isn't a practice that is limited solely to your personal life - you can also incorporate green practices into your print marketing strategies!
Some people might think print marketing and environmentally friendly don't belong in the same sentence, but there are plenty of ways to keep your printing green while getting your marketing message out.
First things first
Paper is biodegradable and renewable. Recycling allows paper to come back as new paper or paperboard. In addition to promoting recycling, the paper industry plants 1.7 million trees A DAY - three times more than what's harvested. This helps ensure the number of trees isn't depleted by the use of paper.
Print on recycled paper
Not only can you recycle paper, but you can commit to doing all your printing on it. Producing recycled paper takes 40% less energy than producing new paper. Recycling just one ton on paper can reduce greenhouse emissions by one ton, save 7,000 gallons of water and conserve enough energy to power the average home for six months according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.
You can choose paper that has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which means the paper you use has been sourced in a environmentally friendly and social responsible way. You can also use 100% recycled paper stock. Take it a step further and go with a "tree-free" paper made from non-wood pulp.
Digital printing
One of the many benefits of digital printing is the ability to print in exact quantities at an affordable price. Because businesses can now get as many or as few pieces as they need, there's less waste. Choosing digital printing means you're only using what you need versus ordering a larger amount you won't actually use in order to receive a price break.
Another eco friendly perk of digital printing is its use of 100% non-toxic dry toner, eliminating ink and any potential chemical waste.
Proof your work
Proofing your work multiple times mean there is less likelihood of the new need for reprint.
Keep your list clean
Using direct mail as a way to reach targeted potential clients? Take some time to clean up your list. Review it and make sure the correct people are receiving your marketing, which can drastically cut down on waste.
Print and mail from the same location
Using the a printer who can also sort and post your mail helps eliminate the fuel usage associated with the transportation of the pieces from the printer to the mail house. Every little bit counts!
Print marketing can be done in a way that's environmentally friendly. Have any questions about green print marketing? Get in touch!
- Denise Hayes