Sustainable print can feel overwhelming for small businesses. Here's a practical starting point — the changes that make the most difference with the least effort.
Sustainability can feel like a moving target. When it comes to print, this guide gives you a clear, practical starting point without the greenwash.
Start with what you print most
For most small businesses, that’s business cards, letterheads and marketing flyers. Getting these three right covers the majority of your print environmental footprint.
The three changes that matter most
1. Switch to FSC certified paper. The easiest, most impactful change. Now widely available at no premium. Specify it on every order.
2. Specify vegetable-based inks. Add this to every print brief. Most quality UK printers use them as standard already.
3. Print less, but better. Digital printing makes short runs economical. Print 250 brochures you’ll use rather than 2,000 that sit in a cupboard.
What to tackle next
- Switch business cards to recycled or kraft stock
- Remove plastic lamination from anything short-lived
- Switch packaging to FSC certified board and paper bags
- Find a local UK supplier to reduce delivery miles
Shop related products
All printed on FSC certified stocks by our verified eco supplier network.
Eco business cards, printed sustainably
FSC certified card, vegetable-based inks, UK printed. From £19.
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