the future looks green.

  As global environmental concerns increase, have you been wondering what our local industries are doing to protect the western slope? With so much of our economy and lifestyle rooted in the outdoors, it's an increasingly important question. As awareness grows and alternatives emerge, we are re-thinking the necessity of some of the print industry's conventional processes.

  Among the "green" measures we have taken, are a lessened reliance on potentially-hazardous chemicals, a reduced demand for energy, decreased waste, and the support of responsible forestry. Affirming our commitment to energy conservation and waste reduction, we replaced our traditional platesetter with a revolutionary, chemical-free alternative. Not only does this new platesetter eliminate the need for transport, handling, processing, & storage of poisonous chemicals; it eliminates the energy required for the around-the-clock temperature demands of the plate baking process and cuts down the need for cleaning fluids.

  Another of the earth-friendly practices we have employed is the use of soy-based, versus petroleum-based inks. Soy, a grown agricultural product, is bio-degradable which reduces the impact of waste on the land. The use of soy-based material instead of petroleum also reduces our dependence on foreign oil, and will even help you breathe easier by producing far fewer V.O.C.s (Volatile Organic Compounds) than conventional inks.

  We also seek to reduce our carbon footprint by using paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) which is the global benchmark for responsible forest management. This body documents the "chain of custody" through all stages of paper production back to the forest of origin. Purchase of this paper helps bring the printing industry's paper consumption back into balance.

  Among the other steps we have taken towards a greener future are: the use of a computer-controlled ink setting system that reduces the amount of paper necessary for printing, staff recycling practices, and a policy of cardboard recycling that persists despite its expense to the company.

  All things considered, it's not so surprising that our company does employ these "green" practices. After all, we believe: "What's best for our customers is best for us." Why shouldn't that philosophy encompass environmental concerns? As Scott puts it, "It's not something you do for profit; it's something you do because it's right."