You’ve likely run your fingers across a freshly printed brochure and admired its sharp colours and smooth finish. But have you ever wondered what chemicals lie beneath that surface? Or what happens to that beautiful print once it’s discarded?
For years, litho printing has balanced the line between quality and environmental cost. At Lebone Litho, we’re always asking the hard questions: Can we reduce our impact without compromising excellence? Can commercial printing truly be sustainable, from press to finish?
Let’s unpack how green inks and biodegradable coatings are leading that transformation.
The Hidden Environmental Cost of Traditional Finishing
Many people are surprised to learn that standard inks and coatings are petrochemical-based. These petroleum-derived solvents, resins and plasticised varnishes are known to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during drying, polluting the air and endangering health in poorly ventilated facilities.
Even more troubling? Most traditional coatings are not biodegradable. They interfere with recycling processes, meaning your beautiful print could end up as landfill clutter instead of pulp for reuse.
As climate concerns and regulatory pressures mount, it’s no longer a question of “Should we go green?” but “How fast can we get there?”
What Makes Green Inks So Different?
Unlike conventional oil-based inks, green inks are formulated using renewable resources such as soy, linseed, corn or algae. These alternatives reduce toxic emissions and allow for easier deinking during recycling.
While soy ink has long been the poster child for sustainability in print, it’s just one part of a growing portfolio. New plant-based inks now rival petroleum-based counterparts in richness, drying time and cost-effectiveness, especially when printed using professional-grade litho systems, which Lebone Litho maintains to meet evolving industry standards.
One measurable win? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, soy-based ink can reduce VOC emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional petroleum-based inks.
Biodegradable Coatings: The Final Green Layer
Coatings do more than look good. They protect printed materials from scuffing, fading and water damage. But now, thanks to rapid innovation, they can also protect the planet.
Water-based coatings, such as aqueous gloss or matte, offer excellent clarity and durability with none of the environmental drawbacks of plasticised UV coatings. Even laminates are evolving: cellulose-based films and compostable biofilms are helping redefine what’s possible.
At Lebone Litho, we’re constantly researching finishing options that complement our core litho printing services and align with the highest green standards for future application. Because to us, “finishing well” doesn’t just refer to quality; it means sustainable finality.
Why it Matters Now More Than Ever
Sustainability is no longer merely a compliance requirement; it is rapidly evolving into a commercial expectation. Clients want to align their print choices with their ESG strategies. Consumers are demanding accountability across every touchpoint, including print collateral. And printing companies? We need to rise to the challenge with both innovation and intention.
For Lebone Litho, it’s our trajectory. We believe the future of printing in South Africa must be both technically excellent and environmentally responsible.
For eco litho printing, partner with Lebone Litho – your choice for technically excellent print and a commitment to sustainable innovation.
