SUSTAINABILITY WATCH

Sustainable Print In Global Markets

RESTON, Va.—A 300+ page study published in 2009 by PRIMIR entitled, "Sustainable Print in a Dynamic Global Market: What Going Green Means," is now available for general release. The study, which was initially released exclusively to –PRIMIR and NPES members, delves into the impact of print on the environment. It investigates who is driving sustainability in the industry; reports on accreditation and other environmental management programs and systems; reviews regulatory and compliance issues; contrasts how print compares with other industries; and discusses carbon footprinting and offsetting. The study also provides a number of best-practice case studies relevant to all firms in the print supply chain.

Conducted for PRIMIR by Pira International, the research revealed that companies in the print industry have a wide span of what it means to be "green." Many printers claim to be "green" because they are FSC or SFI certified. Additionally, a large number of printers are recycling everything they can from their operations and many are generating income from these recycling programs. But the study revealed that the more progressive firms have a culture—an all-out corporate commitment to sustainability—with full-time staff dedicated to that purpose. These companies have made significant investments that provide a positive ROI, not only to their production costs, but also in new customers that are seeking a sustainable supplier.

In addition, the comprehensive study identifies a number of recommendations for virtually all participants in the print supply chain. For more information, visit www.primir.org.

Color Resolutions International Achieves Sony Green Partner Status

FAIRFIELD, OH—Sony Corporation has recognized Color Resolutions International's (CRI) ongoing commitment to sound environmental practices and earth-friendly inks by certifying CRI as a member of its Green Partner Program. The presentation of the Certificate of Green Partner follows a rigorous audit by Sony that, in part, measured strict compliance with its environmental guideline standards. An important part of Sony's procurement policy, the Green Partner Program requires that outside suppliers meet Sony's Green Partner requirements for environmentally friendly products, production facilities, and management systems. The certification is required for all suppliers who provide components, devices, and materials for Sony products.

"We are very pleased to be recognized by Sony as a Green Partner," says George Sickinger, president and CEO of CRI. "Our certification recognizes CRI's commitment to quality products and environmental responsibility, and we commend Sony for its work to protect the environment."

PaperWorks Receives FSC Certification

PHILADELPHIA—PaperWorks Industries announced that it has received the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody certification for some of its production across its MasterWorks line of products. FSC certification is a system that provides internationally recognized standard-setting, trademark assurance, and accreditation services to companies and organizations interested in responsible forestry. The 5-year certification means the company has been officially recognized as being committed to strict tracking requirements. Customers that see the FSC Chain of Custody number on their materials can have confidence that their FSC-certified products come from responsibly managed forest resources.

"Not only are we proud of our FSC Chain of Custody certification, but it provides a significant advantage to customers who want FSC certification for their products in turn," says Mark P. Roy, senior vice president, commercial development. "By providing FSC-certified products, we give them a major part of the custody chain with products they can use without requiring a rigorous on-site supplier audit process." pP

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