Sustainability isn’t just responsible—it’s profitable
Sustainable printing practices are becoming essential for competitive printers. While environmental initiatives were once seen as cost centres, today they’re a strategic lever to reduce waste, lower operating costs, and meet growing customer expectations.
Clients want environmentally responsible suppliers. Employees want to work for companies that care. And governments are tightening regulations. Print providers that embrace sustainability are staying ahead—both ethically and economically.
What sustainable printing practices look like
Sustainability in printing is about much more than recycled paper. It involves a wide range of process and material decisions that reduce environmental impact while improving workflow efficiency. Some of the most effective approaches include:
- Energy efficiency: Upgrading to newer equipment with lower energy usage, LED drying, or energy management systems.
- Waste reduction: Streamlining prepress and production workflows to eliminate overruns and minimize scrap.
- Low-VOC and soy-based inks: Reducing the impact of chemical emissions and improving indoor air quality.
- Efficient substrates: Using FSC-certified or post-consumer recycled paper with high yield and performance.
- Digital and on-demand printing: Reducing inventory waste by printing only what’s needed, when it’s needed.
Why printers are embracing sustainability
Sustainable printing practices offer real business value. For many print providers, these practices are already contributing to measurable improvements across operations. Benefits include:
- Cost savings: Less waste and lower energy usage translate into direct bottom-line impact.
- Sales growth: Environmentally responsible printing is a key selling point for many corporate clients and procurement teams.
- Risk reduction: Meeting current and future compliance regulations reduces liability and improves operational resilience.
- Employee engagement: Staff are more motivated to work for companies with a strong environmental purpose.
How CFR supports your sustainability goals
At Connecting for Results, we help print businesses integrate sustainable printing practices in a way that makes sense operationally and financially. Whether it’s energy audits, workflow analysis, or supply chain review, our consultants identify actionable opportunities that align with your goals.
We don’t just recommend improvements—we help implement them. The result: lower costs, better performance, and a stronger position in a sustainability-focused marketplace.
Ready to make your operations more efficient and environmentally responsible? Contact CFR to explore your path to profitable sustainability.
