Previously, printing on fabrics and textiles was as simple as selecting the appropriate size, style, and color. But now, customers are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact and are willing to pay a premium to support brands that provide environmentally friendly alternatives.
So, how does eco friendly screen printing operate, and what should you do if you want to include these possibilities in your business? Continue reading to discover the key principles and steps involved in adopting eco-friendly screen printing practices.
Choosing Sustainable Printing Materials
Choosing sustainable printing materials is an important aspect of eco-friendly screen printing. To reduce your environmental effect, choose materials that are sustainably sourced and recycled.
Opt for materials like hemp, organic or recycled cotton fabrics, bamboo fabric and paper, recycled paper, FSC-certified paper, or recycled fabric. Consider the life cycle of the materials you use, and use biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable options whenever possible.
Making these mindful decisions benefits the environment while also aligning with the ideals of screen printing sustainability. It results in a more eco-friendly and socially responsible approach to your screen printing profession.
Choosing Non-toxic Printing Inks and Supplies
When it comes to eco-friendly screen printing, choosing non-toxic inks and materials, such as screen printing inks for dark textiles, is important.
When contrasted to solvent-based inks, use water-based inks with zero or extremely low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These inks are not only safe for the environment but also for the artists and workers who use them.
Choose non-toxic cleaning products, emulsions, and reclamation chemicals that are safe for both people and the environment. By taking a comprehensive approach and employing non-toxic printing inks and supplies, you can ensure a safer and more sustainable screen printing process.
Adopting low-impact Printing techniques
Adopting low-impact printing techniques is another important part of environmentally friendly screen printing.
Consider employing digital pre-press techniques, such as printing stencils directly to the screen. This will result in significant reductions in material waste and energy use.
Adopting low-impact printing processes can be improved by employing the exact amount of ink and resources required for each print job. This helps to reduces waste and makes better use of resources. Reusing screens is another environmentally friendly method. Screens that are properly cleaned and maintained can be reused, decreasing the demand for new screens and total waste.
Order in bulk
The transportation industry causes havoc on the environment. According to one study, transportation is responsible for 28% of greenhouse gas emissions, making it the greatest contributor.
The more individuals order things for shipping, the more greenhouse gas emissions are produced. Bulk ordering is an excellent approach to reducing the harmful consequences of transportation.
When it comes time to order new supplies for your shop, attempt to order a month’s worth. The same goes when ordering clothing. The less frequently you order, the fewer trucks, trains, and planes will be going.
Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Screen Printing Practices
Adopting eco-friendly screen printing processes has numerous benefits:
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Using non-toxic inputs, such as water-based inks, reduces the release of dangerous chemicals into the environment. Using sustainable materials, such as organic or recycled fabrics, helps to lessen the environmental impact of your printing.
- Waste Reduction: Using effective ink management procedures to recover as much leftover ink as possible at the end of a run and reuse it in the following run that requires that color. Reusing screens also reduces waste output.
- Worker Safety: Eco-friendly screen printing reduces harmful exposure, making the workplace safer for artists and employees. Plastisol, discharge, and UV-curable inks are all known for emitting poisonous, carcinogenic, or neurotoxic fumes during the printing and curing process.
- Enhanced Brand Image: Prove your dedication to environmental responsibility. This will attract eco-conscious customers and improve your brand’s reputation.
- Appeal to environmentally conscious customers: Sustainable screen printing reflects the principles of eco-conscious consumers who actively seek out ecologically friendly items. By offering sustainable prints, you can cater to their preferences while also expanding your offerings to this growing client base.
Summing Up
If you are ready to make positive changes, start by integrating these eco-friendly screen printing techniques into your screen printing process today. Ensure to partner with suppliers and manufacturers who share your commitment to environmental responsibility.
