As Australians become increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, the demand for sustainable practices in every industry is on the rise—including printing. From local print shops to large-scale commercial operations, eco-friendly printing is becoming more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. If you’re a business owner, designer or consumer looking to make greener choices, here’s what you need to know about eco-friendly printing in Australia.

Why Eco-Friendly Printing Matters

Traditional printing methods can have a significant environmental impact. The use of petroleum-based inks, non-recyclable materials, high energy consumption and excessive waste generation all contribute to pollution and deforestation.

In contrast, eco-friendly printing focuses on:

• Reducing carbon emissions
• Using sustainable or recycled materials
• Minimising toxic chemicals
• Reducing water and energy consumption

Making the switch to sustainable printing not only helps the planet but also enhances your brand’s credibility and appeal to environmentally conscious customers.

Key Components of Eco-Friendly Printing

1. Recycled Paper & Sustainable Sourcing

Look for paper products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or made from 100% post-consumer waste. These papers come from responsibly managed forests or recycled sources and help reduce deforestation.

2. Energy-Efficient Printing Processes

Many Australian print companies are investing in energy-efficient machinery and renewable energy sources. Digital printing, for example, is often more eco-friendly than offset printing due to lower setup waste and shorter print runs.

3. Non-Toxic Finishes and Adhesives

Avoid laminates and coatings that are not recyclable or biodegradable. Look for water-based finishes and glues to keep printed materials environmentally friendly.

What to Look for in a Sustainable Printer

When choosing a print provider in Australia, ask about:

• Sustainability certifications (FSC, PEFC, ISO 14001)
• Use of recycled or sustainable paper stocks
• Ink and finishing options
• Carbon-neutral printing programs
• Waste management and recycling practices

Environment & Sustainability at Impressu

Impressu holds the highest level of Sustainable Green Print Certification – Level 3. And the company has selected industry-based environmental management accreditation for the development of its sustainability credentials.

The Impressu commitment to a safe environmental footprint. Impressu uses both Direct Imaging and Computer to Plate technology across all print equipment. This has eliminated any need for film development and significantly reduced our use of chemicals in the production process.