HP has recently published the results of its Life Cycle Assessment of different paperback book printing options. The comparative study, “The Environmental Case for Digitally Printed Books”, focuses on the US market but its reasoning is relevant for book markets around the world.
The basic conclusion, as you might expect from the title, is that digital printing is less damaging to the environment than the conventional sort. However the story isn’t quite that simple and book publishers should look closely at this report as part of their future publishing strategies. Publishers can use printing technology synergies to balance higher profitability with the need to reduce their environmental impact.
This is the first of a two part Verdigris article examining some of the myths and misconceptions preventing printing companies from adopting a more aggressive environmental strategy for their businesses. 
It can be hard for individual printers to develop a measurable environmental policy but the forthcoming ISO 16759 should address this.
PrintCity, the nebulous alliance of industry suppliers offering advice to the industry, has published another of its cross industry special reports. This one is called “Carbon Footprinting & Energy Reduction” and we were flattered to have had the chance to peer review it. We also provided reference material for the authors through the Verdigris project, some of which is included in the report.
The ability to deink and recycle paper makes it a very environmentally friendly solution, but will the increasing use of inkjet printers threaten this?
Should a state intervene to decide the format of the invoices that companies issue to their customers?
