Offset Printing
Proof is in The Eating
Tuesday 02. June 2009 - Regardless of the industry, pick up any trade media publication nowadays and there seems to be one standout topic: environmental protection.
Every product seems to have a green marketing angle. However, with an increase in both greenwashing (false and misleading environmental claims) and the sheer volume of green marketing, research is beginning to show that the public are starting to tune out to the green marketing message.
So what can eco-conscious suppliers and manufacturers do to ensure that their eco-credentials are taken seriously?
What is critical is proof – facts and figures that substantiate the true environmental impact of such marketable products. Almost any company can label either themselves or their products as sustainable or green, however the proof is definitely in the eating.
So how palatable are Heidelbergs products with respect to the environment?
Firstly, for us environmental sustainability is not simply a short-term, greenwashing activity – but rather a long-term, sustainable approach to doing business. The graphs provided show the key environmental indicators of our production – note in particular the last three years. While the press & post-press production output of the Heidelberg group rose by nearly one-third (05/06 to 07/08), we have managed to reduce energy consumption, overall CO2 emissions and have increased waste recycling rates. This is real environmental protection.
It is a fact that all manufacturing equipment impacts the environment – regardless of its make, model or industry. Heidelbergs focus is to manage this impact. Every machine function represents an opportunity to do something that is both technologically efficient and environmentally sound. Product design and development are crucial areas when it comes to protecting the environment. This is why we believe that our machines are the best environmental performers on the market.
For our offset presses, the underlying environmental solution is provided by our StarPeripheral Systems. These systems have been specifically designed to minimise all production inputs, while maintaining optimal performance and quality. There is a specific StarPeripheral System in place to address the environmental concerns for each production input. Our Saphira brand of consumables has also been developed to ensure optimal operation of our press peripheral systems.
Importantly for Heidelberg, driving environmental improvements also drives profit improvements for our customers.
For Heidelberg, environmentally sustainable printing is not just a theoretical exercise – sustainability is shown directly on our machines. At Pacprint 09, Heidelberg will have on show many products designed to reduce the environmental footprint of the printing process.
For those with an environmental appetite, we invite you to take a bite. Bon appetite!