Did you think eco-friendly stationery started and ended at the paper choice? Rest assured there is one more step you can take. Evaluate the ink too.
Image copyright sarbert
Traditionally, the printing industry uses inks that are petroleum based. These inks deliver two major drawbacks to the environment. First, they release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) into the environment (read pollution) which reduces air quality and can cause short and/or long-term health effects. Secondly, they are made from non-renewable resources (boo). Sadly, due to availability and cost-effectiveness, these inks are prevalent within the printing industry.
However, there are choices YOU can make to ensure you are not supporting these practices. Go that one step further and source printers that use vegetable or soy based inks. These inks are derived from sources such as soy beans, flax and canola.
Pro’s:
- emit low VOCs
- derived from renewable sources
- biodegradable
- de-inking paper is much easier when it comes to recycling
- provide equal if not better results
Right now, I don’t print commercially but have opted for a digital press at home. For me, this is a great choice as I have no printing waste and only print what is required. Should one day the need for commercial printing arise, you can better your dollar I’ll be going with vegetable or soy inks.
Other ways to reduce VOC’s into the environment
Don’t use ink!
If you’re design allows (either entirely or fully), don’t use ink! Huh right? Check out this simple design that embosses (or blind presses) the design onto the paper and in my opinion, creates an equally stunning aesthetic.
Blind Impression Letterpress Notecard Set by simplesong design
Save yourself some money and handwrite your envelopes
While having a printed envelope creates a look of completion, evaluate whether it’s totally necessary. If you’re writing leaves little be desired, snag a friend with enviable writing abilities or consider a calligrapher when it comes to your wedding invitations.
Source short-run printers
Many commercial printers have print-run minimums that exceed what you actually need. Do a little more research and find a printer that will do short-run printing or consider opting for a digital press as mentioned earlier.
Dotty Everydays – Set of 6 greeting cards and envelopes by modernemotive (yup, me!)
Okay folks, time to wrap up this post. Hope this was helpful. Happy Tuesday.
Find me elsewhere
etsy: http://modernemotive.etsy.com
blog: http://blog.modernemotive.com
twitter: http://twitter.com/modernemotive
ddobkcsuwkjnqpghwnux, space heater, MOaROnv.