About “Green” Design & Sustainable Printing

Wanting to do my part (as President Obama has reminded us), I have always been attracted to organizations and green initiatives that will help our planet. When I design print marketing materials such as brochures, postcards, posters, and other signage, I make sure to select a printer who cares about the same “green” issues and will use recycled paper and environmentally friendly inks as much as possible. In talking with “green” printers (for my other blog with Mary Jo Rhodes) FROGS ARE GREEN, we want to make sure we are producing a fine product and one that won’t harm the planet.

young-leaves-in-forest

Beautiful image of young leaves in a forest from istockphoto

I have researched various printers and organizations because I think it’s important to read about them, and see just what they are or aren’t doing. My goal is to use only USA printers and brands.

Here’s a bit about what some of them are doing:

Green Press Initiative
Mission: The mission of the Green Press Initiative is to work with book and newspaper industry stakeholders to conserve natural resources, preserve endangered forests, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize impacts on indigenous communities.

Green Press Initiative

Mission: “The mission of the Green Press Initiative is to work with book and newspaper industry stakeholders to conserve natural resources, preserve endangered forests, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize impacts on indigenous communities.”

Monroe Litho – Sustainable Commercial Printing

“For over 60 years, Monroe Litho has been on the cutting edge of printing technology—and today, we’re leading the way in environmental responsibility and sustainability. From pre-press, printing, and binding to mailing and fulfillment, Monroe Litho has the people, the equipment, and the processes to bring your next project to life—maximizing your impact on customers, and minimizing your impact on the planet!”

Design It Greener

“Designitgreener is an all-inclusive resource for the graphic, packaging, industrial, interior and architectural design industries. At designitgreener.com, we’re helping designers stay informed and educated on the latest and greatest in all realms of green design by providing news, tips and advice, a glossary of common green terms and a green design gallery where designers will find inspiration to help begin and continue to make green choices a part of their everyday design practices.”