A popular symbol of a green lifestyle is a tree leaf. So it’s only natural to assume printing runs contrary to the green movement because paper is made from trees. Electronic communication has often been viewed as the greener alternative.

Nearly everything we do has some impact on the environment, but the truth is printing is actually the greener alternative over electronic communication. While Electronic media is instantaneous, printing remains a vital form of communication because of its tangibility and personal-touch.

In a commentary on the pros and cons of printing versus electronic communication, International Paper, a global paper and packaging company, points out some often overlooked aspects of printing versus electronic communication to show the greener side of printing. The green points made in the news release included: 

• Paper comes from a renewable resource – trees. Every day the paper and forest products industry plants more than three times the number of trees than are harvested. Electronic devices are typically made of plastics and other non-renewable resources and often contain chemicals and metals.

• Paper uses less energy. The amount of electricity used to run a computer for only five months could produce enough paper for the average person to use for an entire year.

• Paper is biodegradable and recyclable. Paper is biodegradable and nearly 60 percent of all paper in the U.S. is recycled. Only 18 percent of all electronic devices are currently recycled and e-waste constitutes the single largest waste export in the U.S.

Printing green is more than just knowing its green characteristics. Working with an experienced printer can help you print in the most efficient way possible by reducing waste and saving you money.