A customer was recently put off buying business cards from us, as someone told them that printed cards contribute towards harming the environment. We thought we’d take you through the facts on this, so you can make an informed decision next time you’re deciding whether to get another pack of business cards printed.
Firstly, we’d like to point out that print does get a disproportionately bad reputation compared to some other industries when it comes to its effect on the environment. By comparison, how often do you think about the amount of packaging being used in your weekly food shop? Or your Amazon parcel, where a small product most likely came in a box at least four times as big?
When it comes to printed cards specifically, we thought we’d run through some facts and information. By doing this, we may also answer some of your questions on this topic.
Are business cards old hat?
Printed business cards are still very popular today, despite digital trends. In fact, when it comes to networking, they provide a great way of telling others about you and your business in a succinct way.
When it comes to digital communications, it’s perhaps easier to misremember information or forget a company entirely, whereas a business card serves as a constant and physical reminder for the recipient. Although you may think getting business cards made of old recycled paper is the way to solve this, it actually takes more effort to create and doesn’t lead to additional planted trees.
Should you stop that order for 500 business cards?
Paper as an industry is reliant on sustainable management of forests. For this reason, the print industry contributes to the employment of many individuals who play their role in the upkeep of the forest. The industry also helps to protect the forests that are most at risk from becoming farmland. By purchasing paper goods such as business cards, you can help sustain employment and plant additional trees.
Forests also lead to the creation of renewable energy, which in turn helps us establish a more sustainable society. So, your purchase of business cards has a lot of benefits for the environment too.
If you’d like to, you can find out more about the sustainability of paper products from organisation Two Sides. Founded in 2008, they exist to unite businesses across the graphic communications supply chain, including those involved in forestry, paper and ink. The organisation focuses on dispelling myths surrounding the paper industry while promoting its sustainability.
But I’m still looking to reduce my carbon footprint. How can I achieve this if I continue to buy paper products like business cards?
By making small changes like shopping at your local market rather than the supermarket, you’ll save far more plastic and cardboard than you would by cancelling an order of business cards. Avoiding shopping online where possible and making sure you recycle properly are more effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint on a long-term basis.
If saving the planet really was as simple as not printing business cards, we’d stop tomorrow! However, online shopping and widespread single plastic use contribute far more to the effect on the environment. If you’re interested in finding out ways you can save the environment, read this simple guide to eco-friendly living.
Whether you need new business cards, flyers or other printed products, our team are here to help. Speak to us to find out more about our products and how we can help you promote your business.