Pranil Chandra January 10, 2025
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In a world where environmental responsibility is no longer optional, the printing industry faces a crucial challenge. Large format printing is widely used for events, branding, and promotions, yet traditional printing processes often come at a significant environmental cost. Whether it’s the resources consumed, the waste generated, or the non-biodegradable materials left behind, many businesses find themselves questioning the sustainability of these practices.
But what if there was a way to achieve stunning visual impact without compromising the planet? As a leader in eco-friendly large format printing in Australia, NEXT Printing is tackling this issue head-on! And while fully biodegradable solutions for all materials are not yet available, our innovative approach ensures that every choice – from substrate selection to disposal considerations – is as kind to the environment as possible.
In this article, we’ll explore the environmental impact of printing, why materials like paper-based products are a smarter choice, and how NEXT Printing’s sustainable practices can help your business achieve its green goals. Ready to print responsibly? Let’s get started!
The environmental costs of traditional large format printing are hard to ignore. From non-recyclable PVC banners to solvent-based inks that emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), conventional printing practices have long contributed to resource depletion, pollution, and waste accumulation. These materials, designed for durability and vibrant colours, often end up in landfills, where they can persist for decades and potentially release harmful substances into the environment.
The choice of materials is particularly impactful. Many common substrates, such as PVC, are petroleum-based, requiring fossil fuel extraction and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. These materials are non-biodegradable and have limited recycling options, which adds to the problem of waste. In addition, traditional solvent-based inks release VOCs into the atmosphere, posing health risks and contributing to air pollution.
While fabric is sometimes marketed as a “greener” option for large format printing, the reality is that it’s not truly sustainable – yet. Most fabrics used in printing are synthetic, made from non-renewable resources, and they’re difficult to recycle. Even fabrics pitched as recyclable can become compromised once printed onto, depending on the inks and printing methods used. Biodegradable, compostable fabrics are still in development, meaning the printing industry is left with limited sustainable fabric options for now.
These environmental challenges highlight the urgent need for eco-friendly large format printing solutions that minimise their impact on the planet. So, how can marketers achieve real printing sustainability?
Achieving sustainable printing starts with making smart material choices. Scientific research highlights the clear advantages of tree-based substrates compared to petroleum-derived materials. Unlike their petroleum-based counterparts, which leave a lasting environmental footprint, substrates made from trees come with a natural ecological benefit: they absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere throughout their lifespan, helping to offset emissions and combat climate change.
Studies reveal that trees absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), especially during their peak growth years-typically between 16 and 70 years of age. During this time, trees serve as powerful carbon sinks, capturing CO₂ and reducing its presence in the atmosphere. Even after reaching maturity, their ability to store CO₂ provides a lasting environmental benefit.
This natural process makes tree-based products a sustainable and eco-friendly choice-particularly when materials are sourced responsibly. Substrates like Re-board, made from renewable paper fibres, harness these inherent carbon storage benefits, offering marketers a greener alternative for large format printing. And the best part? These benefits are available for your projects too!
Unlike non-renewable PVC and plastic-based products, paper-based substrates can be recycled and repurposed, further minimising their environmental impact. Research indicates that recycling paper-based materials preserves much of their stored carbon, helping to maintain the ecological benefits of the original tree.
By choosing tree-based options, you can align your marketing projects more closely with your brand’s sustainability goals.
It’s possible to only use materials that come from responsibly managed forests. Sustainable forestry practices – such as selective logging and tree replanting – mean that the CO₂ absorption benefits are continually renewed, creating a cycle of sustainable production that supports ecosystems and reduces reliance on non-renewable resources.
While it may seem complex, achieving sustainability doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the challenges and prioritising eco-conscious processes, businesses can make a meaningful impact. Or, you can partner with a team like NEXT Printing, who have already embraced sustainable solutions and are ready to guide you every step of the way.
This research-backed approach has helped NEXT Printing lead the way in sustainable practices within the printing industry. By focusing on materials like Re-board, made from tree-based products, we deliver durable, visually striking results while actively reducing the environmental footprint. Our dedication to science-driven, sustainable choices ensures your projects not only look great but also contribute to a greener future.
NEXT Printing stands out by tackling the most pressing environmental concerns in large format printing. Our approach is rooted in a holistic commitment to sustainability, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint and overall environmental impact of every project.
What began as a dedication to using sustainable materials and eco-friendly inks has evolved into a comprehensive, lifecycle-focused philosophy. From the careful sourcing of materials to thoughtful end-of-life disposal strategies, we’re committed to making every step of the process as environmentally responsible as possible.
It’s one of the core elements of our eco-friendly strategy: our choice of materials. Unlike traditional petroleum-based substrates, NEXT recommends Re-board, a durable and versatile product made from responsibly sourced paper fibres. Re-board offers a reduced environmental impact in multiple ways: it’s made from renewable resources, has a lower carbon footprint, and can be recycled. Since it originates from trees, Re-board substrates already come with a natural carbon-absorbing advantage, contributing positively to the environment by storing carbon through the lifespan of the material.
At NEXT Printing, we go beyond materials to consider the environmental impact of the inks used in printing processes. Traditional solvent-based inks release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to air pollution and pose potential health risks.
To combat this, we prioritise the use of sustainable inks with lower VOC emissions whenever possible. These eco-conscious options help minimise both the immediate and long-term environmental effects of large format printing, ensuring your projects are as environmentally friendly as they are visually impactful.
While sustainable options for fabrics remain limited, NEXT is committed to informing clients about the current realities of the market. Although fully compostable, biodegradable fabrics are not yet available, our team actively researches new developments and offers guidance on the most sustainable options currently accessible.
Through these practices, NEXT Printing offers businesses environmentally friendly printing that maintains a high quality. By choosing sustainable substrates, low-impact inks, and openly discussing material limitations, we’re redefining what’s possible in eco-friendly large format printing.
The environmental impact of printing has long been a challenge, but NEXT Printing is helping to reshape the industry by prioritising sustainability at every stage. From using eco-friendly substrates like Re-board, which harnesses the carbon-absorbing properties of responsibly sourced timber, to adopting sustainable inks and processes, we’re setting a new standard for environmentally conscious printing.
While the printing industry still faces challenges – such as the current limitations in fabric sustainability – NEXT Printing remains transparent about these issues and is actively engaged in finding solutions. They provide clients with clear, research-backed insights into why tree-based materials are among the most sustainable choices available today, combining high-quality results with a reduced environmental footprint.
For businesses committed to minimising their ecological impact, choosing a printing partner like NEXT means access to reliable, sustainable options and a partner genuinely invested in advancing the future of eco-friendly printing. By making informed choices about substrates, inks, and processes, you can contribute to a healthier planet while still achieving the visual impact you need.
Ready to make the move towards printing sustainability? Contact NEXT Printing to explore sustainable large format printing options that support both your brand and the environment.
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