As climate concerns grow, industries worldwide are shifting towards more sustainable practices, and the digital print sector is no exception. Consumers and governments are increasingly focused on eco-friendly business operations, with 44% of modern consumers more likely to buy from sustainable brands and 54% actively avoiding companies that fail to meet environmental standards, according to research by Statista.
This has driven significant changes within the digital print industry, where companies are adopting new practices to reduce their environmental impact.
The Rise of Sustainable Practices in Printing
Traditionally, the printing industry has been associated with a large environmental footprint due to its use of energy-intensive equipment, non-recyclable materials, and harmful chemicals. However, the sector is now making substantial efforts to become more eco-friendly. Companies are using recycled media, environmentally friendly inks, and energy-efficient equipment.
This shift is not just about reducing environmental harm but also about responding to consumer demand for greener products. Sustainable printing materials have often been priced at a premium, but as demand for eco-friendly products has increased, the costs of sustainable alternatives have become more competitive, enabling wider adoption across the industry.
Roland DG: A Leader in Sustainable Printing
Roland DG takes pride in being at the forefront of driving sustainability within the digital print industry. Roland devices are known for their exceptionally long-lasting print capabilities that allows customers to reach their own sustainability targets, while delivering incredibly low total cost of ownership (TCO) over the course of device lifespan.
Here are some of the ways that Roland DG is championing sustainability across the business:
Cutting-edge Green Technology
Roland DG incorporates energy-saving features, such as built-in sleep timing and smart wake-up functions, across its product range, allowing customers to use less energy without sacrificing performance.
Every new entry to the range is designed to be cleaner and more efficient than previous iterations. For example, the TrueVIS AP-640, our first Latex printer, supports PVC-free media and holds top environmental certifications such as GREENGUARD and AgBB+, ensuring safe use in sensitive environments.
Reducing Waste and Optimising Resources
Roland DG focuses on reducing waste throughout the printing process. VersaWorks RIP software, included with all Roland DG printers, helps users optimise printing to minimise wasted media. The “Nesting” feature allows multiple designs to be arranged in a single print space, making the most of available materials. Additionally, “basepoint” ensures precise print placement, reducing material wastage further.
Sustainable Consumables
Sustainability extends to consumables. Our Ecodeco wallpaper, for example, is a fully recyclable, PVC-free product that offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wallpapers. Similarly, TR2 Ink, a next-generation eco-solvent ink, is GREENGUARD Gold certified, making it safe for use in environments like schools and hospitals. These products reflect Roland DG’s dedication to developing sustainable alternatives that do not compromise on quality or performance.
Cardboard-Based Ink Cartridges
In 2023, Roland DG introduced cardboard-based ink cartridges, which reduce plastic use by 82%. This move is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 350 tons annually, marking a sign ificant step in Roland DG’s sustainability mission. The company also ensures that all packaging is fully recyclable, helping to reduce waste in the industry.
A Collective Effort for Long-term Sustainability
Sustainability in the print industry is a shared responsibility. We want to set a powerful example for the rest of the industry with our efforts to create environmentally friendly printing technologies.
Roland DG is leading the way towards a greener future for the digital print sector. By making sustainability a core part of our business strategy, we are helping customers and the industry move towards a more environmentally conscious future.
For more information on sustainability in the print industry, you can download our report “A Greener Future for All: How sustainability is reshaping the digital print sector for the better” here.