Label Printing - Recycling | Print Buying Direct

Label Printing – Recycling

Label Printing – Recycling – 24th march 2010
The issue of waste disposal and recycling of post-consumer waste is perhaps the most emotive of all. Self adhesive labels are already being recycled- under the generally- accepted rules of using homogeneous materials for label and container. For example, paper label on cardboard box; polypropylene label on polypropylene container.

Adhesives represent a contaminant in the recycling process (as do inks and any residual products contents). Research of plastic container recycling has indicated that a total contaminant percentage level of 3-5 % by weight does not significantly affect the recycled container’s performance.

If we are to benefit fully from the potential of recycling, then considerable research is still required, both technically and into the potential markets for the recycles products.

Can the green label printer say which the most environmentally acceptable adhesives are? The answer is, of course, he cannot.

What he can do is ensure that he purchases materials from laminators who are equally concerned for the environment. They in turn must exert this influence on their base material suppliers. The conversion process must be as efficient as possible, to maximise the use of raw material and eliminate unnecessary waste. There must be constant liaison between label printer and customer to keep customers aware of new developments in adhesive technology. Customers must fulfil their role in adhesive development and specification through adequate testing and specification.

What is certain is that impending European and Unites Kingdom and legislation will dramatically influence the packaging industry’s behaviour. When selecting adhesive and label materials, and considering working methods and practices, label printers must think beyond compliance to Health and Safety or Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations and current practices and products. If we are to exert a positive influence on the environment there must be a better understanding of the life cycle of the components, and a genuine desire to improve the quality of life being offered to future generations.

What can be expected is for the green printer to be proactive in his/her concern for the environment.

Next time – more in our series of articles on how to create a successful newsletter…

Peter Harrison is Joint MD of The Printing House Ltd, and Print Buying Direct of Crewe, Cheshire, UK.

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