Print Vs Digital: A Sustainability Comparison
In the print versus digital debate, sustainability is a key factor that drives decisions. Making the right decision requires an objective understanding of the environmental impact of both mediums.?
Print and digital each have their own set of sustainability challenges, from production resource management to energy consumption. While digital has gained traction as the more eco-friendly option, there is a bulk of research available to suggest otherwise.?
As businesses strive to adopt more sustainable practices, understanding these impacts is crucial for making informed choices that balance environmental responsibility with operational needs.?
Environment Impact of Print?
The environmental impact of print encompasses various stages, from resource extraction to production and waste management. While it’s true that print media production requires resources such as paper, ink, water, and energy, the perception of its environmental impact has often been exaggerated. In reality, the paper and print industry is increasingly adopting sustainable practices to mitigate the effects of production.?
It’s important to understand that paper is a renewable resource. In Australia, paper is sourced from planted forests , specifically cultivated for the production of virgin paper. Trees absorb CO2 from the atmosphere to use as a fuel source for photosynthesis, and the residual is retained in paper products once the tree has been harvested. These planted forests provide a renewable source of paper and absorb atmospheric CO2, contributing towards the offset of the carbon emissions caused by the manufacturing process.?
In terms of inks and water usage, advancements in printing technology have led to more eco-friendly practices. For example, waterless printing and the use of soy-based inks significantly reduce water consumption and lower the emissions of harmful volatile organic compounds , making the printing process cleaner and greener.?
Energy consumption in print is primarily concentrated during the production phase, with minimal ongoing energy use once the materials are distributed. This energy footprint can be further minimised by adopting energy efficient practices, like enabling printer power-saving options and regularly upgrading to the latest, most energy efficient models. At Kwik Kopy, we’ve made it standard practice to upgrade our equipment every four years, a measure that has seen massive reduction in our power consumption over the past decade.?
Environmental Impact of Digital?
Digital media, while often hailed as a greener alternative to print, also carries significant environmental impacts, primarily due to resource usage and energy consumption. The production of electronic devices requires rare metals and other materials, which involve energy intensive extraction and manufacturing processes. The lifespan of electronic devices is relatively short, leading to continuous demand for new products and the consequent depletion of natural resources.?
Once in use, digital products and media rely heavily on electricity, resulting in continuous energy consumption for data storage, transmission, and device operation. Data centres, which are essential for storing and processing digital content, are significant energy consumers, contributing substantially to the carbon footprint of digital media.?
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Electronic waste (e-waste) is another major environmental concern associated with digital media. The complex and often hazardous materials used in electronic devices make e-waste challenging to recycle. As a result, a significant amount of e-waste ends up in landfill, where it can leach harmful substances into the environment.?
In the face of these challenges, the tech industry is making strides to reduce its environmental footprint. Efforts are being made to source materials more sustainably and improve the energy efficiency of devices. Many tech companies are committing to using recycled materials in their products and investing in renewable energy to power their operations, and there are growing initiatives to promote the recycling of e-waste .?
Despite these efforts, there is still a long way to go. The rapid pace of technological advancement presents a challenge in finding sustainable solutions to keep up with the growth. As tech evolves, so must the strategies for mitigating environmental impact.??
Hybrid Approach?
Both print and digital are integral to modern communication, each offering unique advantages. Print delivers tangible and meaningful connection, while digital offers the ability to reach a broad audience on a budget.?
Achieving sustainability often means finding a balance between traditional and modern practices. For businesses this balance can be struck by combining the strengths of both print and digital media to create an eco-friendly strategy that enhances communication efforts while minimising environmental impact.?
Best Practices for a Sustainable Hybrid Approach?
Kwik Kopy centres proudly hold Sustainable Green Print (SGP) certification, which involves meeting stringent requirements focused on reducing the environmental impact of print productions. This certification reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability and ensures that our practices are aligned with industry standards for eco-friendly printing.?
Both print and digital media have their own environmental footprints, but the choice between them doesn’t have to be an either-or situation. By understanding the sustainability challenges and opportunities of each medium, businesses can make smarter decisions that reduce their overall impact. Our network of SGP certified Kwik Kopy centres are highly qualified in helping businesses make the most eco-friendly choices. Reach out to your local centre to go green today!