So I know all about recycled paper and soy ink, but what else can I do as a designer to help save the planet? I mean, my day is spent creating designs that will become printed material. Think of all that paper and all those trees.

But even if you are not a designer, these tips will give you good ideas for helping your office be kinder to the earth and it might also save you some money in the process.

Around the office…
• Reduce electricity by turning off computers and lights when they are not in use.
• Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent daylight bulbs (or sit near a window).
• Refill printer cartridges, or send empty ones off for recycling. Or even buy re-manufactured cartridges.
• Use both sides of the page when writing notes or making printouts. And then don’t forget to recycle the paper.
• Use digital proofs whenever possible and ftp or email files.
• Plan ahead to avoid air and rush shipping.
• Unsubscribe to stock photo catalogs and extra junk mail.

Layout and design…
• Create pieces with long-term value to avoid constant reprinting.
• Use fewer ink colors and avoid metallic and fluorescent inks which can be toxic. And use less ink coverage if possible.
• Avoid printing too many extras. Order only the quantity you need.
• Check with your printer to find out their press sheet sizes to make the most of each sheet. Also, designing pieces without bleeds will reduce wasted paper.
• Consider printing smaller sized pieces or reduce the number of pages. And print double sided.
• Use water based (aqueous) varnish instead of solvent based, UV coatings or laminates.
• Consider embossing as an alternative to foil stamping.
• Don’t forget about die-cuting to add interest to a piece and the dies can be reused.
• Avoid paper and ink all together – use online advertising, eblast and digital catalogs.