57 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 email: news@signlink.co.uk runs its Planet Partner recycling program, an initiative for end-of-life HP products. “As a company, we have a responsibility to lead the way,” Jelinek says. “We know that our customers often do not know where to look for the information, that is why we are focusing or delivering ready to download eco-conscious media alternative pre-set to unlock the full potential of our HP Latex solutions. “And to close the loop, we listened to our customers’ pain points and we know that waste management is one of them. This led to the launch of our Hardware take back program, which not only covers cartridges and printheads, but also non-used hardware.” Great Progress Switching attention from suppliers to greenminded companies, Tradeprint offers a range of sign-making services with a planet-friendly approach. Anthony Rowell, sales and customer success director, and also sustainability lead at Tradeprint, says the sign industry is making great progress on the sustainability agenda. “This was so obvious when I visited Sign and Digital UK recently; there was a buzz about the new more sustainable substrates and materials that are coming through,” Rowell explains, adding: “Epson has launched a water-based ink to compete with HP’s water-based Latex ink, while on a recent visit to HP I was really impressed with its approach to sustainability; the company underpins everything by facts to help ensure it doesn't get accused of ‘greenwashing’.” For Rowell, the key benefits of sustainability for a sign-making business, all of which he has witnessed at Tradeprint, include a reduced environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable future, as well as increased customer appeal to clients that prioritise sustainability. Other stand-out benefits noted by Rowell were cost savings, in that by adopting sustainable practices, this can lead to cost savings particularly in terms of energy and waste. In addition, taking a greener approach can improve your reputation as a business and establish yourself as responsible and environmentally conscious operation, which could then lead to increased customer loyalty and support. As to how Tradeprint is playing its part in protecting the environment, Rowell says that the company offers PVC-free banner and posting printing. The business also recently launched a new PVC-free substrate that he says is just as durable and versatile as PVC but does not contain chlorine and dioxins, which therefore makes it easier to dispose of than its PVC counterpart. “Recycling options within the UK are available for PVC-free substrates but are currently limited, so we are working with our waste partners to understand how this could be improved,” Rowell says. “There are some options for recycling PVC but they rely on ensuring the waste is segregated and actually gets to the specialist recycler – there are some options so I’d encourage you to look at where your waste goes so you can make your best efforts. When PVC is thrown into either landfill or an incinerator it can release toxins that are negative for both humans and the environment if released in high enough concentrations. “Choosing to go PVC-free is a step towards ensuring we are moving away from using less sustainable materials. Tradeprint is delighted to be able to offer customers a choice and we hope to bring more and more sustainable choices as new materials become more available. “If I were to offer any advice it would be to engage with trade associations such as FESPA UK, BPIF, and IPIA and make the most of those memberships by getting involved. Networking with sustainability professionals and signage professionals so you get a good feel for what’s going on in the wider industry and you’ll get a better understanding of best practice from your peers.” With a whole host of benefits to look forward to, it is easy to see why so many sign-makers have already made the move towards sustainability. Working with planet friendly materials, of which there are seemingly plenty, will go a long way to ensuring you can offer customers a greener service. Choosing to go PVC-free is a step towards ensuring we are moving away from using less sustainable materials ◄ HP’s Hardware take back program covers cartridges and printheads, as well as non-used hardware NEED TO KNOW / SUSTAINABLE SIGNAGE MATERIALS ► Tradeprint offers PVC-free banner and poster printing
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