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total cost of ownership of products they purchase. “Here is where paper and paper-based products are understandably brought into sharp focus,” he says. “Customers increasingly want to be reassured that their product is sustainably sourced, ethically produced and has a minimal environmental impact.” He adds that the recycled vs virgin fibre debate is often raised during sustainability- based conversations. “But to say one is better than the other is not necessarily the whole story,” he notes. “Without virgin fibre, recycled papers cannot exist and there are several well-respected sustainability certifications to support the use of virgin product. “Beyond this we are seeing some new and innovations in the marketplace including ream and packaging that is fully recyclable, new product certifications such as Cradle to Cradle and a growing range of carbon neutral papers.” Duncan Smith, country director, production, UK & Ireland at Canon, adds that printer paper can support a business’ sustainable credentials when selected in line with broader sustainability goals. “Although often overlooked as a key part of the business workflow,” he says. “When it comes to paper choices, businesses are looking for a recyclable, high- quality material, and reliability is key. That’s why Canon’s climate compensated papers are designed to be compatible with Canon devices, as well as other printer brands in the market. This means that customers don’t need to change their existing workflow to improve their sustainability credentials. “As a result of this commitment, we offer a complete range of climate compensated printer paper for both in-office and wide- format industries such as architecture, engineering and construction. Canon’s Red Label Zero FSC® and Recycled White Zero FSC® demonstrate how sustainable progress can start with even the simplest change, by reconsidering the essential elements of the print workflow such as paper.”
Paul Savill
economy, advancements in technology, smart sorting and chemical recycling, there is also a trend for recycled paper. Both are demanded if they carry their sustainable credentials clearly shown. Liz adds that changes within the paper and packaging sector are being driven by three elements. The first is a shift in consumer behaviour. “Consumers, especially the millennial generation, are seeking sustainable choices, there is far more awareness of environmental challenges today than ever before, including the need to reduce or even eliminate plastics,” she says. “Paper packaging is becoming a sustainable choice, given sustainable forestry management from source through to its recycling capability at the end of life.” A shift in government policy, such as new plastic free legislation, is also driving change, Liz adds. “Consumer brands are now being forced to rethink packaging, as governments around the world implement new environmental legislation,” she says. “This includes those packaging products that consist of a combination of materials – plastic and paper. The separation of these materials being made easy at design concept as well as the material themselves.” Finally, global brands are looking to promote good environmental stewardship to find and keep customers, and as part of its overall brand identity. “Many of these brands have made strong sustainability commitments and include those within their sourcing polices,” she says. “In the eyes of the consumer, packaging is seen as a representation of the brand and the product contained within it.” Sustainability With sustainability becoming increasingly important, Paul notes that customers are becoming more focused on the sourcing and
antalis.co.uk
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When we had
the shortages, paper prices went up, but to a point where they should be, if the truth be told, where everyone in the chain was making a fair margin.
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Steve Carter
advantia.co.uk
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