Turn Key Blog. Things we've done and the things we love.

Don’t believe the rumours: with over 8.7 million people in the UK not yet online*, print is definitely not dead.

At Turn Key, digital forms a very important part of most integrated marketing plans, but we haven’t forgotten about print.  In many cases, reaching your target audience would be impossible without print media. However, you must be aware that consumers and customers alike are becoming more discerning and are demanding print services with strong environmental credentials.

So, what are the best ways to create printed material without damaging your CSR principles and further boosting your green credentials?

We’re working closely with our print suppliers to develop solutions that are as environmentally friendly as possible, and maintaining high quality stocks without compromising on print finish. Many of our clients have a great interest in upholding their environmental credentials, especially through their print service, as this often comes under immediate scrutiny. The addition of an FSC or recycled logo can be a fantastic way of alleviating concerns among both employees and stakeholders (an FSC stamp ensures that the required standard of care has taken place throughout the whole supply chain by forest owners, timber processors and manufacturers).

Top tips for ensuring that your print is sustainable.

1)    Make sure that all paper is FSC certified at the very least – and tell people about it! The addition of an FSC or recycled logo on your brochure will show you care

2)    Check to see if your printer is using vegetable based inks (rather than oil based) as standard, and if not then request that they use them for your application.

3)    Ask your printer and see if they have methods in place for the safe disposal and recycling of all materials used in print production, including inks and chemicals. If not, ask why not.

4)    Try and work with your printer to ensure that environmentally friendly alternative specifications are incorporated from the start – they should always be happy to help. For example, enhanced gloss varnish is an environmentally friendly alternative to gloss UV varnish, whilst also being better quality and much more cost effective!

Of course, it’s all about small, smart changes to what you’re already doing that creates added value. Set yourself apart as a leader and show customers your green credentials, whilst also influencing their behaviour for the better.

*www.raceonline2012.org

Further information: www.team-impression.com/environment www. fsc -uk.org