In today's environmentally conscious world, businesses across industries are seeking sustainable practices to reduce their ecological footprint. The printing industry is no exception. Traditional screen printing methods often involve solvent-based inks, which can release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and contribute to air pollution.
However, a more environmentally friendly alternative exists in the form of water-based ink screen printing. This blog explores how water-based ink screen printing can significantly reduce the environmental impact of printing processes.
Understanding Water-Based Ink Screen Printing
Water-based ink screen printing is a more eco-friendly technique that replaces petroleum-based solvents with water as the primary pigment carrier. Unlike traditional plastisol inks, which rely on chemical reactions to adhere to fabrics, water-based inks penetrate the material's fibers, resulting in a softer, more natural feel to the printed design. This approach significantly reduces the emission of toxic chemicals into the atmosphere and makes water-based inks a more sustainable option for screen printing.
We even wrote a whole article on the difference between plastisol (BOOOOOOOOO) and water-based inks (YAYYYYYYY), you should check it out.
Reducing Air Pollution
One of the most significant environmental benefits of water-based ink screen printing is its ability to reduce air pollution. Traditional solvent-based inks release VOCs, which can contribute to ground-level ozone and smog formation. These harmful pollutants can lead to respiratory issues and environmental degradation. Screen printing businesses can substantially minimize their VOC emissions by using water-based inks, promoting cleaner air and a healthier environment for workers and the community.
Lowering Water Pollution
Water pollution is a significant concern in the textile and printing industry. The runoff from traditional solvent-based ink printing can contaminate water sources, threatening aquatic life and potentially entering the human food chain. On the other hand, water-based ink screen printing minimizes the risk of water pollution as it is less likely to leach harmful chemicals into waterways. Additionally, by using water-based inks, printers can reduce water consumption and contribute to water conservation efforts.
Energy Efficiency
Water-based ink screen printing typically requires lower curing temperatures than traditional methods. The reduced curing temperature reduces energy consumption during printing, decreasing carbon footprint. By adopting water-based ink screen printing, businesses can align their operations with sustainability goals, conserve energy resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Biodegradability and Recycling
Water-based inks contain natural components that are more biodegradable than the chemicals found in traditional solvent-based inks. This makes water-based ink prints more environmentally friendly and less harmful to landfill ecosystems. Moreover, clothing items printed with water-based inks are easier to recycle due to the absence of toxic chemicals that could interfere with the recycling process. This promotes the circular economy, reducing waste and supporting sustainable manufacturing practices.
Safer for Workers
Beyond the environmental advantages, water-based ink screen printing also enhances the safety and well-being of printing industry workers. Traditional solvent-based inks can release harmful fumes, posing health risks to employees who work with these substances regularly. Switching to water-based inks reduces exposure to hazardous chemicals, creating a safer and healthier working environment for all involved.
Compliance with Regulations
As environmental regulations become more stringent worldwide, businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. By transitioning to water-based ink screen printing, companies can align themselves with evolving environmental standards, making them more compliant and competitive. Meeting regulatory requirements also enhances their reputation as environmentally responsible entities, which can attract eco-conscious customers and partners.
We’ve been screen printing with water-based inks since 2009.
Embracing water-based ink screen printing not only reduces the ecological footprint of the printing industry but also supports a more sustainable future for all. As consumers become increasingly conscious of environmental issues, businesses that adopt eco-friendly practices will undoubtedly gain a competitive advantage while contributing to a greener world. We can help with that.
Real Thread is the custom apparel industry leader in water-based screenprinting. We don’t use plastisol inks, but choose to print solely with water-based and discharge inks for a reason. Aside from the eco-friendly aspects of it all, when printing with water-based ink, the print is softer, more breathable, and more durable than its competitor, yielding a better overall t-shirt that people are going to love wearing again and again.
Ready to start printing some eco-conscious apparel? We’re here to print with our water-based inks whenever you’re ready.
In the meantime, check out our list of sustainable products. Make it a doubly-eco-friendly whammy of an order.
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