Our extensive selection of green papers.
Independent has been an FSC-certified printer since Spring 2006. Our certification, through Smartwood, a program of the Rainforest Alliance, confirms that we follow the FSC’s rigid standards, and demonstrates our commitment to sound forestry practices. Click here to see a list of our FSC-certified and recycled papers.
Our use of vegetable-based inks.
We currently use two ink systems – vegetable-based inks and hybrid UV inks.
Our vegetable-based ink series consists of 51% sustainable materials including vegetable oils and modified rosins. These inks are also formulated with organic materials that do not contain any animal-based byproducts. The overall volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are less than 1%. The hybrid UV-cured ink contains no vegetable oils and is dried (cured) with UV energy. UV inks do not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOC) making them a very green choice.
Both are environmentally responsible ink systems. Therefore, Independent can use whichever ink best suits the project.
We minimize energy usage.
Independent continually works to reduce energy consumption through continuity. Some examples are:
- Building construction methods that provide superior insulating value and reduce energy use.
- Orion light fixtures that displace 7.2 million kWh over their lifetime (In 2005 Independent received an Environmental Stewardship Award for the installation of these light fixtures.)
- Utilizing the low temperatures of the cold winter months to obtain free cooling for the manufacturing processes.
- Heat recovery wheels in our heating and ventilation system, which reduce energy consumption.
You can print with renewable energy.
Independent has enrolled in Wisconsin Public Service’s Renewable Energy Program, NatureWise, and a natural energy alternative. Members are committed to protecting the environment today while preserving resources for tomorrow. Independent has access to renewable energy sold by Wisconsin Public Service/Integrys. Electricity is generated from renewable sources such as wind turbines and biogas, presently available to Independent.
Cleaner air.
Independent filed for and received an air pollution control operation permit in 2002. Emissions prior to 2002 were tracked, but the permit has helped formalize and expand tracking. We are permitted as a minor source of emissions, which means Independent will emit less than 100 tons of VOC (volatile organic compounds). We actually emit less than one quarter of the limit specified in our permit. We use VOC emission potential as one of the criteria when evaluating chemicals and processes.
We recycle. Everything.
- Paper scrap - is hauled only 6.7 miles away to manufacturing faciltity that turns the scrap into bathroom tissue. During 2008, we recycled
2,604 tons of paper.
- Inks / Solvents - are taken to a facility for processing. Ashes from the fuel blending process are used as a component in cement.
- Aluminum plates/film - National Precious Metals and recycled on a regular basis. During 2008, we recycled over 55,000 pounds of aluminum plates.
Efficient delivery trucks.
Independent is a member of the EPA SmartWay Partnership. The partnership is founded on the premise that partners are committed to programs and management practices reducing greenhouse gas in freight transportation. Independent works diligently to improve our fleet’s fuel efficiency. We operate Freightliner Sprinter trucks using 5-cylinder diesel engines, which average 23 MPG as compared to more traditional gasoline engines at 13 MPG.
