The Different Types of Eco-Friendly Inks

Although most companies are aware of the importance of cutting back on paper usage and waste in the workplace, fewer know how the type of ink they use also affects the environment. For example, a majority of standard ink cartridges contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds are artificial chemicals that release high levels of vapor pressure with lower water solubility. Luckily, several different sustainable inks are available for companies to become eco-friendlier. This blog discusses the different types of eco-friendly inks and how they can benefit businesses.

Soy-Based Ink

When businesses switch to sustainable ink options, they usually opt for soy-based ink. Organically sourced from soybean oil, this ink produces fewer VOCs without compromising on quality. Soy-based inks can develop bold, vibrant colors and translate fine details with the same accuracy as standard ink cartridges. If companies are concerned about eco-friendly inks affecting the quality of their product packaging, soy-based ink will put these concerns to rest.

Water-Based Ink

Water-based ink also reduces the amount of VOCs that are released into the atmosphere after printing. These ink formulas also don’t contain any additional solvents or petroleum. As a result, water-based inks will significantly benefit businesses searching for highly compatible and flexible ink alternatives.

Water-based inks also have highly absorbent properties that make them ideal for printing on denser product materials. Businesses hoping to find eco-friendly ink options for label printing on complex product packaging will do well with water-based inks. 

UV Ink

UV inks are highly effective and eco-friendly cured ink options. Unlike soy- and water-based inks, UV inks use heat to print through curing rather than absorption. When companies apply UV ink to different materials, UV rays activate and cure the ink onto products.

One of the reasons UV inks are such sustainable ink options is because the printing method wastes less ink. More of the total UV ink formula is used during printing, which means businesses can consider this ink option to be both eco-friendly and economical.

Companies that create products that are stored in harsher weather conditions or in more extreme climates should consider opting for UV inks. The cured printing method of this ink makes it highly durable and flexible.

With so many different types of eco-friendly inks to choose from, adopting sustainable business practices is simple. Swap your standard solvent-based ink for a greener printing method, or sell them to Sell Toner so that your business can reduce its carbon footprint.