By Cassandra Balentine
Achieving the perfect balance of recyclability, print performance, and affordability is the goal when it comes to selecting the right media for a job. As digital print technologies are adopted across a range of applications, media and substrate providers aim to offer an ample selection of options with sustainability in mind.
When you’re searching for the right media for a particular digital print application, Jay Kroll, director of product education, General Formulations, believes that the total lifecycle of the material needs to be taken into consideration. This is especially true if environmental impact is an important consideration. “The end-of-life recyclability can and should greatly impact the success of these efforts. At General Formulations, we recognize the growing demand for sustainable, PVC-free alternative solutions in the industry and remain steadfast in our commitment to responsible manufacturing. While we offer a range of PVC-free alternatives to meet the needs of environmentally conscious customers, we also ensure that our PVC vinyl products are safe and sustainable.”
Yupo has a strong stance on sustainability both within its manufacturing process and within its products’ DNA. “We feel we have the perfect balance of sustainability with high-quality printing that can be cost effective for any job,” shares Ryan Kight, marketing manager, Yupo Corporation America.
Neil Hawkins, marketing manager, Magnum Magnetics’, approach to sustainability is design for re-use—swap graphics, keep the base, print compatibility—broad ink/press support to use existing equipment, and domestic availability—shorter shipping lanes, fewer disruptions. “Magnetic-receptive bases are lighter than magnetic stock—helpful for freight and installation—while printed magnets deliver the image quality customers expect.”
While options exist, striking a balance is complex. “Our approach focuses on practical, affordable changes. We prioritize integrating recycled content at concentrations that do not compromise print performance or significantly impact cost. As recycling streams and technologies evolve, our materials will continue to adapt, helping customers take meaningful steps toward circularity,” admits Suzanne Crilly, marketing manager, MGX.
For recycled fibre papers, Jean-Marc Dubois, key account manager, Papeteries de Clairefontaine, says the company controls the entire production chain, from pulp to delivery in order to guarantee cost efficiency and competitiveness. “Thanks to advanced surface treatments, the print quality is the same as papers made from virgin fiber—delivering outstanding results without compromise.”
Kernow has a broad portfolio of recyclable polyester and polypropylene products that deliver outstanding print performance across a range of print technologies—dry toner, HP Indigo, latex, UV, and eco-solvent. “Because of ease of use, print performance, and durability, our products can remove cost from existing print processes and deliver a better solution to the customer,” notes Mike Madura, sales director, North America, Kernow Coatings.
Nov2025, DPS Magazine
