Paper or Plastic

I had the opportunity to speak with an expert in the printing industry about sustainability this week. It’s important to note that she works with a lot of printers, but she does not work for a printer. This was important because I was interested in receiving facts, not a sales pitch. What you will find below are facts about sustainable papers, myths dispelled, and places to go to learn more information.

Myth #1: Sustainable paper costs more.
Fact: Sustainable paper does not cost more! Most paper used by printers is made up of a combination of recycled content and virgin fibers. However, requesting a specific type of paper made from virgin fibers could increase your printing costs.

Myth #2: You should work with a printer you have used before and understands your business.
Fact: Shop around for the best price and talk to your designer about ways you can cut costs. Ask at least three printers in your area for a quote before choosing one.

Myth #3: Glossy and UV coated paper cannot be recycled.
Fact: UV coating is often used when your paper needs extra protection, such as a magazine cover. Glossy and UV coated paper can be recycled.

Myth #4: Your paper should be made from 100% post consumer waste (recycled content).
Fact: Paper made from 10-30% post consumer waste is best when printing. Paper made from 100% post consumer waste can get grainy and the ink will be absorbed by the paper, making the colors look less vibrant.

Myth #5: There’s no need to print. You can make a digital version and put it online.
Fact: Digital versions of marketing and advertising receive a lower response rate than printed pieces. This is especially true when fund-raising. If you want to capture 100% of the viewer’s attention, consider sending a printed piece. To offset printing and mailing costs, make your small, such as a postcard.

Myth #6: You should not use sustainable paper if you want a high quality printed piece.
Fact: Sustainable paper is commonly used by businesses of all types for high quality printed projects. Many magazines such as Inc. and Everyday with Rachel Ray use sustainable paper for the cover and inside pages. Stop by a bookstore and compare these magazines to the others. Do you you notice a difference in the quality.

 

For more information:
• http://www.mohawkpaper.com/
• http://www.paperspecs.com/mainblog/
• http://www.re-nourish.com/