Print Hub Global has partnered with CarbonQuota to help improve the sustainability performance of its 200-strong network of suppliers and meet a growing requirement from customers, those in retail in particular.
The two have developed a carbon impact initiative which will start with a calculation of carbon emissions from the large format printers, commercial printers and installers within its network. This will result in a carbon footprint value for different projects enabling customers to work out the impact from production, distribution and installation.
Retail companies are at the head of the drive to understand and measure the carbon embedded in display printing, says Print Hub Global managing director Chris Kelly. “The drive for greater sustainability applies across all sectors, retail in particular where consumer facing brands need to ensure that they are not exposed. For these reasons retail has been much further ahead than some other sectors. I think that CarbonQuota and what they do will really support that.”
CarbonQuota will be focusing on the production companies where, says Kelly, there has been a positive response to the tie up. “Some had already been in contact with CarbonQuota and I estimate that two-thirds have shown real interest in thus and how it can support them on their sustainability journey. We will not be forcing this on supplier but it is something that we really believe in.”
A year ago Print Hub Global teamed up with events organisers’ association Isla to help its members chose materials with an eye to sustainability as events organisers have come in for criticism as much material is commissioned on a one off basis. “Events have been criticised on how big a problem this is and we have been driving the change,” he says.
“This initiative is more focused on suppliers, though is definitely something that clients want to see. Ultimately it’s about doing what’s right for the customers through material choice and identifying the right supplier.”
CarbonQuota will measure impacts at key points in the supplier network to come up with a calculation for the carbon footprint and identifying ways to reduce it.
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Print Hub Global. Chris and the team have a genuine passion to support their supplier network, by calculating and reducing their carbon impact, this makes Print Hub Global the perfect match for CarbonQuota,” says client services manager Jenny May.
