AN EVALUATIVE STUDY OF ECO-FRIENDLY PRINTING IS A SUSTAINABLE

PRACTICE IN PAKISTAN

BY: Dr. Shakella Kousar , Muhammad Zahid Suleman (PhD Scholar), Kamran (PhD Scholar)

Abstract

Concern over environmental sustainability is growing around the globe. The printing sector
in Pakistan can use this study's recommendations to increase the sustainability of its print
operations.

Around 15,000 printing companies operate across Pakistan. Pakistan’s printing industry
carries great potential as the consumption of paper per capita is still 9 KGs, in comparison to
India’s (13—14 KGs), Sri Lanka’s 19KGs, China’s 80-84KGs, and the USA with 300 KGs In
addition to keeping the environment clean, recycling roughly 1.5 million MT of waste paper
generates over Rs78 billion in yearly income for thousands of low-skilled laborer’s employed
in the waste paper collection chain. (Minhajudin, 2022)

Concern over the effects of human activity on the environment has grown during the last few
decades. Over time, what started as initiatives to reduce pollution in the 1970s has
transformed into a more complete emphasis on environmental sustainability an assessment of
the effect that exploiting natural resources today has on the capacity of future generations to
meet their requirements. An environmentally conscious corporate strategy today entails more
than just implementing a few green practises. Businesses are realising that implementing a
thorough sustainability programme is advantageous for the environment as well as for the
business's bottom line. (McCarthy, 2022)

Sustainability in the printing sector necessitates a comprehensive strategy that considers

every part of a plant, product, and process in addition to implementing adjustments that are
good for the environment and that comply with all labour rules for employee health and
safety. Many printing companies in the printing industry accept sustainability as a mission
and work on a sustainable production approach in response to consumer and brand needs. The
art card, various types of papers a product created using the offset printing technique in the
printing industry, was produced using basic raw materials such as paper and ink. (ÇAĞLAR,
2021)

Change in behavior is the solution; for instance, buying organic items and decreasing waste
both have a positive influence on the environment and raise the value of the product. The
most crucial factor in this area is adequately training staff. The use of recyclable coatings and
laminates as well as adhesives low in VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) reduce
environmental effect and raise the value of the final product. Caring for raw materials also
makes a difference.

This study will offer helpful guidance on how to develop a sustainability policy that is
beneficial to the environment in printing firms helpful for the economy and future
generations.
Keywords: Printing industry, printing, offset, sustainability, Environmental, Paper and VOC