In a world where digital communication has taken centre stage, print still stands as a formidable and effective medium. For those collaborating with print designers, advertisers, and marketers, the intrinsic effectiveness of print cannot be denied. The outcomes produced often mirror customer aspirations with a sophistication that resonates. At Rothfield, our expertise in the world of print goes beyond technical knowledge – it’s an appreciation rooted in the medium’s rich history, astounding diversity, modern day  relevance, and the subtle ways in which people around the world unconsciously integrate print into their daily lives.

While the future of print appears bright, research reveals a pertinent concern: the environmental impact of print. Our mission is to counteract the myths surrounding print, promote its benefits, and enlighten our clients on how print can seamlessly integrate into their marketing strategies.

The Reality of Print’s Environmental Impact

It’s time to set the record straight: the myth that paper production harms forests is far from accurate. In fact, paper production plays a pivotal role in supporting sustainable forest management. In Australia alone, more than two million hectares of working forests are actively growing and managed. To put it in perspective, that’s over a million Melbourne Cricket Grounds’ worth of land! Paper in Australia and New Zealand primarily comes from managed regrowth forests and planted forests, where the cycle of planting, growth, and harvesting is meticulously controlled.

Paper, contrary to misconceptions, is one of the most sustainable products available. Derived from wood, a renewable and natural material, paper production aids in carbon capture as trees absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during their growth. Australia’s forests offer various ecosystem services related to biodiversity, carbon, soil, and water. These services vary depending on forest growth stage, fragmentation, and environmental factors. This data, sourced from the Australian State of the Forests Report 2018, debunks the notion that paper is detrimental to the environment.

Certifications and Sustainability

The paper industry boasts a range of reputable certification schemes, with a significant portion of the world’s forests being certified. Notably, the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC®) have emerged as the leading auditable certifications.

FSC®, founded in 1993, is dedicated to promoting responsible forest management. Its principles ensure forests are managed in an environmentally conscious manner, with over 182 million hectares of certified forest and 27,500 Chain of Custody certificates globally. Similarly, PEFC®, established in 1999, promotes sustainable forest management through third-party certification, covering 258 million hectares of certified forests. These certifications testify to the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Expert Opinions on Print and Sustainability

Patrick Moore, Chairman and Chief Scientist of Greenspirit Strategies Ltd and co-founder of Greenpeace, champions the use of wood as a solution to climate change. Moore states, “One of the best ways to address climate change is to use more wood, not less.” Wood’s abundant, biodegradable, and renewable nature makes it an essential material for sustainable practices.

Empowering Sustainable Choices

As a customer of Rothfield, you gain access to a wealth of resources, insights, and campaign materials. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere words – we take pride in our role as a sustainable and ethical supplier of print materials. Through insights and technology, we continually evolve to ensure a greener future.

Fact-Checking Additional Data

Let’s delve further into the numbers. New Zealand boasts 10.1 million hectares of forests, covering 38% of its land area. Notably, 8 million hectares are indigenous forests, while 2.1 million hectares are plantation forests. In Australia, 134 million hectares of forest cover 17% of the nation’s land area. Australia ranks seventh globally in forest area, with 98% of its forest classified as “native forest.”

Moreover, over 90% of Australia’s commercial native forest operations are independently certified, emphasizing the country’s leadership in sustainable forest practices.

Industry Initiatives Supporting Sustainable Print

Two Sides, a not-for-profit industry initiative, champions the environmental credibility of media across global markets. Launched in 2008, Two Sides counters misconceptions surrounding print and paper by offering credible information on their sustainability. Value of Paper and Print (VoPP) campaign serves as a unified voice for the paper and print sectors, promoting their efficiency and engagement potential. Similarly, the Print: Part of Life campaign educates individuals on print’s vital role in their lives and its benefits for marketing professionals.

Join the Conversation

At Rothfield, we’re more than a print partner – we’re advocates for sustainability and the power of print. Reach out to our Account Managers to learn more about the truth behind print’s environmental impact. Together, we can make informed choices that empower both businesses and the environment. Join the conversation and explore the potential of print at Rothfield.com.au.