Climate change represents one of the most significant challenges of our era. Sustainability emerged as a key topic not only at the Sustainability Touchpoint but also as a consistent theme throughout drupa2024, reflecting its importance in society and daily life. During his keynote address at the drupa Cube, Mark Maslin, a Professor of Earth System Science at University College London, provided a comprehensive overview of the history of climate research and the most recent discoveries. His presentation primarily addressed the ways in which the printing and packaging industry can play a role in fostering a more sustainable future.
Role of the printing and packaging industry
The printing and packaging industry is confronted with the challenge of minimizing its substantial resource consumption while also creating innovative and eco-friendly solutions. By embracing sustainable materials and practices, this industry can play a crucial role in promoting environmental protection.
An example of this is the utilization of recycled paper and biodegradable packaging materials. Recycled paper decreases the demand for virgin fibers and also conserves energy and water in the paper production process. Additionally, biodegradable materials like PLA (polylactide) and other plant-based plastics provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional packaging materials.
Increasing efficiency and avoiding waste
Contemporary printing technologies have the potential to greatly decrease energy consumption and waste. Digital printing, in particular, facilitates demand-driven production, which helps to prevent overproduction and minimize waste. This capability is especially crucial in an era where resources are becoming increasingly limited and the costs associated with waste disposal are rising.
The adoption of lean production principles further enhances efficiency within the printing and packaging industry. By optimizing production processes, minimizing waste, and streamlining workflows, companies can make substantial improvements to their environmental footprint. This approach not only contributes to sustainability but also promotes cost-effectiveness and operational excellence.
Environmentally friendly printing inks and chemicals
Another noteworthy example is the adoption of environmentally friendly inks. Traditional inks frequently contain solvents and other harmful chemicals that pose risks to the environment. In contrast, recent advancements have led to the development of water-based and UV-curable inks, which are significantly more eco-friendly while still delivering high print quality. These innovative inks not only lessen the environmental impact but also mitigate health risks for workers during the production process.
Promoting the circular economy
Promoting the circular economy is indeed a crucial element in preparing the printing and packaging industry for a sustainable future. This approach involves designing products with the intention that they can be reused or recycled after their initial use. By implementing a circular system, the industry can minimize waste and effectively close material cycles, allowing resources to be recycled back into the production process. This not only enhances sustainability but also fosters innovation and efficiency within the industry.
Sustainability strategies and cooperation
The significance of collaboration and collective action in addressing the challenges posed by climate change cannot be emphasized enough. It is essential for governments, businesses, and consumers to work together to forge a sustainable future. Many participants and visitors at events like drupa are already prioritizing sustainability within their business strategies, actively contributing to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This unified approach not only enhances the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives but also fosters a culture of responsibility and innovation across the industry.
Certification and transparency are indeed critical components in promoting sustainability within the industry. Companies should proactively communicate their sustainability goals and provide regular updates on their progress to foster trust and accountability. For organizations like Maslin, obtaining certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for sustainable forest management and ISO 14001 for environmental management systems serves as a vital foundation for building credibility with customers and partners. These certifications not only demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices but also enhance the overall reputation of the company in the marketplace.
Drupa 2024: bubbling with ideas for more sustainability
The presentation at the drupa Cube offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that climate change poses for the printing and packaging industry. Maslin effectively illustrated that, despite the gravity of the situation, there are viable pathways to mitigate the most severe impacts of climate change. Attendees at drupa 2024 had the opportunity to witness firsthand the industry's potential to make significant contributions through innovation and sustainable practices showcased by various exhibitors. It is now imperative for companies to embrace these opportunities and take proactive steps toward fostering a sustainable future.
Want to watch Mark Maslin's keynote in full? Click HERE
