Printers

Printing and paper choices are the most tangible in terms of the decisions a designer makes, especially where sustainable practices are concerned. There is the more obvious decision, like choosing a printing company that uses vegetable-based inks, to the less obvious, like counseling a client on print quantities and better-targeted messages. Below are a number of FSC-certified printers that may also be DEQ Zero-waste printers. Because these companies have gone through the certification process, the print reps will be a good source for creating the right solution for your client. You may also want to review AIGA’s Design and Business Ethics series #7: Print Design and Environmental Responsibility.

Note that many printers may have environmental measures in place but whom do not have a special certification. Ask a printer about their practices. By showing an interest in and demand for sustainable production methods, we as designers can shape how our industry does business.

What is FSC certification? Printers with this designation, provided by the Forest Stewardship Council, undergo an examination of their printing practices, from chemical use, to recycling, to ink content.

Our Green Team of volunteers sent a questionnaire to printers in the Portland and surrounding areas, asking about their sustainable business practices, whether they had a specific certification and what their plans were for the future. We will continue to post their responses and you can use this information as you make your printing choices.

QUESTIONNAIRE

1) What is your overall view of your business’ environmental responsibilities?

2) What types of eco-friendly inks do you use and why?

3) What types of eco-friendly papers do you carry or use regularly or recommend?

4) Do you use any other eco-friendly materials or printing practices?

5) Do you have any green certifications (Forest Stewardship Council, Rainforest Alliance, etc.)?

6) What types of alternative energy sources does your facility use?

7) What are you doing to decrease or eliminate air and water pollution at your facility?

9) What do you do to encourage customers to use the above services?

10) What additional steps do you plan to take in the future to make your practices and facility more environmentally friendly?

PRINTERS THAT ANSWERED THE QUESTIONNAIRE:

Not listed? Please email Sustainability Chair Lisa Holmes if you would like to fill out a questionnaire to be considered for listing on this website.

Additional local printers