Sustainable Print Solutions – How the Print Industry is Adapting to a Greener Future
In an era where sustainability is no longer optional, the printing industry is undergoing a revolution. From the paper used to the devices that print it, every part of the printing process is being reimagined for a greener future.
At Parallel, we are proud to partner with some of the most innovative and environmentally conscious brands in the industry, including Konica Minolta, Kyocera, and Sharp. These companies are all leading the change towards more sustainable print ecosystems. Whether it’s digital transformation, low-waste document workflows, or smarter, longer-lasting technology, the future of print is greener.
A Post-Pandemic Shift Towards Digital and Sustainable Solutions
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many aspects of the business world, including remote working, digital transformation, and a greater focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. One notable shift has been the increased investment in digital printing – according to Konica Minolta, there has been a 150% rise in digital print usage as businesses look for more agile, low-waste solutions to meet changing demands.
Digital print reduces the need for high-volume print runs, decreases paper waste and supports a print-on-demand approach. For industries like logistics and education, where volume and speed matter, digital print offers a more efficient and sustainable option
Print Hardware that Lasts Longer and Wastes Less
The devices behind the print process matter as much as the paper that goes through them. Manufacturers are increasingly embedding sustainability into their design, focusing on long-life components and energy efficiency to reduce landfill waste and help businesses lower their carbon footprint.
Kyocera. Sharp and Konica Minolta have also made significant advancements in this area. Devices are increasingly being designed to last longer, consume less energy, and integrate more seamlessly with digital workflows, resulting in fewer breakdowns, reduced energy consumption, and fewer resources being used.
Toner Recycling and Responsible Disposal
One often overlooked area of sustainability in printing is toner cartridge recycling. Across schools, universities, libraries, and businesses, eco-friendly disposal practices are becoming standard. By introducing toner return schemes, used cartridges can be recycled or remanufactured instead of being sent to landfill.
In any industry where print volumes are high, transitioning to a Managed Print Service that includes environmentally friendly disposal methods can have a significant environmental impact, as well as substantial cost savings.
Low-Waste Workflows
Modern businesses are transitioning away from outdated printing operations and moving towards digital document workflows. More and more organisations are embracing automation, cloud storage and digital signatures.
At Parallel, we work with companies to streamline processes and reduce paper consumption, including the introduction of duplex printing and rules which eliminate unnecessary colour printing.
These simple changes are not only environmentally friendly but also reduce costs and improve productivity. What businesses once saw as a fixed overhead are now seeing that their print budget can be flexible, sustainable and controlled.
ESG Targets and the Role of Print
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks are driving decisions across industries, and the print industry is no exception. Konica Minolta’s ESG roadmap includes an ambitious goal of using 90% recycled resources by 2050.
Forward-thinking businesses are looking to their suppliers and their internal operations to meet similar targets.
This means that sustainability is no longer just a ‘nice-to-have’ anymore. It’s a key component of supplier selection, customer trust, and brand reputation.
Sustainability and Savings Go Hand in Hand
What many companies don’t realise is that sustainability and cost-efficiency are not mutually exclusive. Managed Print Services provides a perfect example of how you can reduce both environmental impact and operating costs simultaneously.
- Less waste = lower supply costs
- Fewer breakdowns = reduced downtime
- Automated workflows = improved productivity
- Energy-efficient devices = lower utility bills
Start Your Sustainable Print Journey with Parallel
If you’re looking to align your print strategy with your sustainability goals, we are here to help. Our partnerships with Kyocera, Konica Minolta, and Sharp give us access to industry-leading, environmentally conscious technology, paired with our tailored service that puts your business goals first.
Whether you’re in education, logistics, the corporate world, or the public sector, we will help you reduce waste, increase efficiency, and move toward a smarter, more sustainable print future.