Balancing Sustainability and Profitability in Wide Format

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In today’s world, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility that businesses must embrace. Customer demand for sustainable products and practices only increases year over year. Combined with growing government regulations and requirements, wide format print service providers (PSPs) face the challenge of finding ways to be environmentally friendly while maintaining profitability. Fortunately, sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Here are three strategies to achieve that delicate balance.

1. Adopt Eco-Friendly Materials and Practices

Embracing eco-friendly materials and practices is not only beneficial for the environment but can also attract eco-conscious customers—leading to increased business opportunities. Wide format print service providers have several options, including:

• Choose substrates such as recycled paper, biodegradable banners, non-PVC vinyl, or materials certified by recognized eco-labels like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
• Invest in energy-efficient printers (e.g., ENERGY STAR qualified) that consume less electricity and produce fewer emissions. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning of equipment will further enhance energy efficiency.
• Provide customers with the option to choose eco-friendly prints produced with resin/latex-based aqueous or UV-curable inks. Many of these ink formulations are ECOLOGO or GREENGUARD Gold certified, produce zero harmful air pollutants (HAPs), and (depending on the media used) are 100% recyclable. Both ink sets cure immediately, allowing for increased productivity and print volume that will add up to increased revenue.

2. Embrace Digitalization and Automation

Digitalization and automation streamline operations and contribute to sustainability by reducing paper waste and energy consumption. Additionally, digitization and automation can increase efficiency in workflow. Wide format print service providers should digitize processes such as order management, file submission, and proofing to minimize the need for physical paperwork and reduce the use of resources like ink and paper. They should also utilize print management software to optimize print jobs, reduce material wastage through accurate color calibration, and minimize reprints—thereby saving costs and reducing environmental impact. In addition, by enabling customers to place orders online, customize designs, and preview prints digitally, PSPs can reduce the need for physical proofs and minimize transportation emissions associated with delivering proofs to clients.

3. Implement Waste Reduction and Recycling Programs

Waste reduction and recycling initiatives, while being fundamental aspects of sustainable business practices that contribute to a circular business model, can also lead to increased profit. Wide format print service providers can:

• Minimize material waste by accurately estimating print quantities, utilizing nesting and job-ganging software to optimize layouts that reduce trim waste, as well as repurposing or recycling leftover materials whenever possible.
• Implement recycling programs within the facility to collect and recycle waste materials such as paper, cardboard, plastics, and ink cartridges. Partner with recycling companies, local municipalities, and printer and ink manufacturers to ensure responsible disposal and recycling practices.
• Raise awareness among employees and customers about waste reduction and recycling. Provide training on proper waste segregation and disposal methods to minimize contamination and maximize recycling rates. Additionally, look to the community to see if misprinted or unused materials can be purchased or donated for upcycling into other products (e.g., vinyl banners into bags).

Keypoint Intelligence Opinion

While incorporating the initiatives mentioned above undoubtedly aligns with the noble goal of preserving our planet, it is equally important to recognize that these efforts can also hold significant benefits for a PSP’s financial health. By seamlessly integrating these eco-friendly strategies into their daily operations, PSPs stand to not only lessen their ecological footprint, but also boost their bottom line. This dual impact is achieved by appealing to a growing demographic of environmentally conscious clientele, optimizing operational processes for greater efficiency and fostering a culture of sustainability that drives long-term business prosperity. Embracing these practices not only demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship, but also serves as a strategic pathway toward sustainable growth and success.

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