As a graphic designer, you might be aware of the importance of choosing the right paper and ink for your projects. But have you ever wondered how your choices affect the environment? In this article, we will explore some of the environmental impacts of the paper and ink you use for a graphic design project, and how you can reduce them.
Paper production is one of the most resource-intensive and polluting industries in the world. It consumes large amounts of water, energy, wood, and chemicals, and generates significant amounts of waste, emissions, and wastewater. According to the Environmental Paper Network, paper production accounts for 4% of global energy use, 6% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and 8% of global freshwater withdrawals. Paper production also contributes to deforestation, habitat loss, biodiversity decline, and soil erosion.
Paper recycling is a way to reduce the environmental impact of paper production, by saving resources, energy, and emissions. However, paper recycling is not a perfect solution, as it also has some drawbacks. Paper recycling requires additional transportation, sorting, cleaning, and processing, which can increase the environmental footprint of paper. Paper recycling also reduces the quality and durability of paper, as the fibers become shorter and weaker with each cycle. Paper recycling can also introduce contaminants, such as ink, glue, or plastic, into the paper stream, which can affect the performance and appearance of paper.
While there is no strict policy on the paper chemical compliance like for plastics (due to lobbying efforts - not because it is harmless), for food packaging always opt for fresh fiber solutions not recycled ones. Also when using shorter fibres additional auxiliary chemicals are added as starches or latexes to hold the shorter fibers together, so while we gain on lower water and energy consumption we add chemicals to preserve the mechanical strength of papers.
Paper types vary in their environmental impact, depending on their source, composition, and processing. Generally, paper types can be classified into three categories: virgin, recycled, and alternative. Virgin paper is made from fresh wood pulp, which has the highest environmental impact. Recycled paper is made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste paper, which has a lower environmental impact than virgin paper. Alternative paper is made from non-wood sources, such as agricultural residues, bamboo, hemp, or cotton, which have a lower environmental impact than both virgin and recycled paper.
Ink production is another source of environmental impact for graphic design projects. Ink production involves the use of raw materials, such as pigments, solvents, resins, and additives, which can have negative effects on the environment and human health. Ink production can cause air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions. Ink production can also generate hazardous waste, such as heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and persistent organic pollutants, which can pose risks to wildlife and ecosystems.
Ink types also vary in their environmental impact, depending on their ingredients, formulation, and application. Generally, ink types can be classified into four categories: petroleum-based, vegetable-based, water-based, and soy-based. Petroleum-based ink is the most common and cheapest type of ink, but it also has the highest environmental impact. Petroleum-based ink contains toxic and non-renewable substances, such as mineral oil, benzene, and toluene, which can harm the environment and human health. Vegetable-based ink is made from renewable and biodegradable substances, such as linseed oil, sunflower oil, or rapeseed oil, which have a lower environmental impact than petroleum-based ink. Water-based ink is made from water and pigments, which have a lower environmental impact than both petroleum-based and vegetable-based ink. Water-based ink does not contain solvents or volatile organic compounds, which can reduce air pollution and health hazards. Soy-based ink is made from soybean oil and pigments, which have the lowest environmental impact of all ink types. Soy-based ink is renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic, and it also produces brighter and sharper colors than other ink types.
Even when printed on recycled or recyclable paper, when all inks are separated they become pure waste and they are not recycled back. Your choice of printing ink goes to use the ink with the least environmental impact during production, and the ones which separates most easily from the paper fibres. If the ink is hard to separate during the so-called deinking process additional bleaching and thus chemicals are needed in the paper recycling process. While water based inks have a minor advantage in the environmental impact they can have a negative impact during deinking as they can refloat and change the paper shades. So when choosing inks use at least as possible and check deinking parameters from the producers.
As a graphic designer, you can reduce your environmental impact by choosing the right paper and ink for your projects. Consider using paper that has a high recycled content, preferably 100%, and is certified by credible organizations. Additionally, use paper that has a low weight, brightness, and coating to reduce resource and energy consumption. Also, opt for paper that is chlorine-free, acid-free, and biodegradable to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals and waste generated. When selecting ink, choose vegetable-based, water-based, or soy-based ink as these have a lower environmental impact than petroleum-based ink. Additionally, pick ink that is low in volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants to prevent air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, and health problems. Furthermore, make sure the ink is compatible with your printing method and design requirements to improve quality and efficiency and reduce ink waste and rework. Finally, reduce the amount of paper and ink you use by optimizing your layout, design, and printing settings; avoid unnecessary printing and duplication; reuse or recycle your paper and ink waste; and dispose of them properly according to local regulations.