C3 Advertising has reduced its use of paper more than 80% over the past three years. We are unjustifiably proud of that fact, given that it happened almost by accident, as a result of a) printer ink costing more per ounce than caviar, b) the development of cheap, small, reliable backup drives, and c) an application called Personal Brain which makes it far faster for us to find an electronic file than to find a piece of paper.
Nevertheless, we are now striving to reduce our use of plastics. This is proving far more difficult. We'll keep you posted on our progress.
We re-use and recycle as much as possible, try to repair rather than replace, and strive to dispose of electronics, batteries, and other waste responsibly.
"Green" and Our Clients
While the decision to "go green" — on a single project, or as an organization policy — rests solely with our clients, it's our job to support them when they do. We find local vendors to minimize transportation impact, track down sources of high-quality "green" products and responsible services, stay informed about environmentally friendly inks, papers, and processes, and offer suggestions for simple alternatives that can have a big impact.
(Sometimes everybody wins. For example, forgoing an environmentally unfriendly spot varnish saves money. Spending a little more per piece on the handful of digitally printed brochures you do need means that you don't have to store hundreds more conventionally-printed pieces you don't. Posting manuals and other materials on your website saves the cost of printing, storing, and distributing, and is more convenient for your customers.)
Some of our clients make significant, unheralded sacrifices in their commitment to the environment. We're inspired by their example and proud to have them as partners.
For more information on environmentally responsible design, visit Re-nourish.com.
Last updated 4/30/07.