Sustainable Printing

Yes, all our papers are sustainably sourced and follow social, ethical, and environmental guidelines. In our most recent survey, 94% of our production partners use FSC-certified paper, ensuring that the wood fiber used in printing comes from responsibly managed forests.

• Uncoated paper is easier to recycle and biodegrades faster than coated paper. It also uses fewer chemicals and less energy to make.
   
• Recycled paper comes from post-consumer waste instead of fresh wood fibres. This reduces landfill waste, saves water and energy, and helps protect forests. Recycled fibres are made from 100% post-consumer waste. Because recycled paper isn’t dyed or bleached, you may notice slight colour differences between batches.

For more details, see our Paper Range support page.

Print-on-demand (POD) is a printing model where items are produced only after an order is placed. This reduces overproduction and prevents unsold stock from going to landfill. Unlike bulk printing, there is no need to print large quantities in advance. POD also reduces shipping and handling, as products are made to order and distributed directly to customers. Using tools like Shopify or Mixam’s API automates production, further lowering errors and material waste.

Download our print-on-demand guide to learn how to get started.

Yes, digital printing supports sustainable print production. It does not require printing plates, as it prints directly from a digital file, reducing setup materials and production waste.

It also supports shorter print runs. Printing the exact quantity needed reduces excess inventory and lowers the risk of unsold prints ending up in landfill.

Digital workflows also improve production efficiency. Automated file handling, page layout, and colour management reduce errors and limit the need for reprints. Fewer reprints mean less paper, ink, and energy used during production.

Yes, Mixam uses vegetable-based inks. 

Benefits of printing with vegetable-based inks:

• Uses renewable, plant-based resources instead of petroleum.
• Produces fewer pollutants and lower VOC emissions.
• Dries quickly while maintaining vibrant colours.
• Easier to remove during paper recycling.
• Supports sustainable and eco-friendly printing practices.

• Print multiple copies on large sheets with high-efficiency equipment.
   
• Stack and trim sheets in batches to reduce material waste and energy use.
   
• Collect and recycle paper offcuts.
   
• Offer digital professional proofs for high-value orders to prevent reprints. You can read more about them on our Proofing support page.
   
• Across our production network, 83% of partners use energy-efficient equipment, reducing energy consumption throughout the printing process.

Yes, Mixam uses cardboard packaging at several production centres. Cardboard is recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable. It reduces landfill waste and supports sustainable shipping. Orders are packed in appropriately sized boxes to limit excess material and shipping volume. In our most recent survey, 89% of our production partners use carbon-neutral or eco-friendly packaging.

Our production partners take active steps to lower their environmental impact. Here are some of the initiatives they currently run:

• Recycling programs for paper waste and printing plates
   
• Energy-efficient lighting across production facilities
   
• Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (VPPAs) to offset carbon emissions
   
• CO₂-neutral print presses

These efforts reflect a shared commitment to making print production more sustainable across our global network.