PIA/GATF, SGIA, and FTA Form Sustainable Printing Partnership

Sustainability is defined as the method of using a natural resource so that it is not depleted or permanently damaged. When looking at sustainability within the printing industry, there are three key elements to consider: the product, the process, and the support system surrounding them. The first involves the materials used to create the product (ink, paper, adhesives, etc.). The second refers to the manufacturing process, and the third includes the building, energy consumption, employees, and other supporting activities, such as solid waste removal and transportation. All of these elements are important when determining a printer’s overall environmental impact.