Did you know that Overnight Labels has been focused on sustainability for more than a decade?  In fact, we started winning awards for our sustainable packaging back in 2007.  Over the last few years we saw that there was a growing movement in the packaging industry.  We felt that it was important to be verified by an independent auditor, so we began our certification process with the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) in 2015.

SGP certification is given to facilities that have met the rigorous standards of their criteria, which include operational improvements and waste reductions.  Certified Sustainable Green Printers must follow sustainability best practices, including and beyond regulatory compliance.

Adhering to SGP’s certification criteria has been a challenge, but very worthwhile.

We have always made the effort to embrace new technology and run our shop efficiently.  We believe that operating an efficient facility is just as important to the sustainability movement as printing on compostable or recycled materials.  Since certifying, our main area of focus has been on decreasing overall ink and paper waste, and keeping a closer eye on any other opportunities for reduction.

We have seen a drastic reduction in ink waste by utilizing our Nova Flow ink mixing system.  In fact, when we received our SGP certification, we went from 23,668 pounds of ink waste to just 4,886 lbs!

Providing Customers with an Eco-cation

As a member of the Natural Products Association, and as an exhibitor of numerous Natural Product Expos, we work with many companies where sustainable packaging is a top priority.  Surprisingly, the people who we meet through these organizations don’t realize that being “green” is more than just using recycled paper stock.  Once we educate them about the importance of taking a 360 degree approach, they truly appreciate our efforts and expertise.

Not only are we able to provide customers with acceptable eco-friendly substrates, we also offer water-based inks with limited VOCs (volatile organic compounds).  Currently, we are working with a new adhesive from Avery Dennison called CleanFlake, which helps aid the recycling process.  Our beverage customers are especially excited that we have brought this new innovation to their attention.

Start Your Sustainability Journey

Changing the way you’ve been running your facility can seem daunting, so the best thing to do is to begin by making some small steps.  No one expects you to go to 100% sustainable, however it is beneficial to lay out some tangible goals and measure them along the way. Slight changes in the right direction are still positive changes for your business.  Once you see some small success, continue to raise the bar. 

It’s also important to involve your employees and stakeholders in your sustainable initiatives.  Not only will your customers appreciate your efforts, it will also help motivate all participants to fully commit and proactively contribute to your sustainable journey.

 

 Ready to talk about really going green? Give us a call at 800-472-5753, or email info@overnightlabels.com.  

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