Bohemia, NY – April 26, 2012 – Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP), a non-profit organization providing sustainability certification in the graphic communications industry, today announces that the Austin, Texas print facility of ProGraphix is SGP Certified. ProGraphix is a wide format digital printer specializing in sustainable and eco-friendly retail, exhibit, event, and promotional graphics. The company is already realizing the benefits of implementing SGP’s criteria, such as an increase in its efficiency and a reduction in waste. SGP Certification also strongly positions ProGraphix as a leader in sustainability, as it is the only SGP Certified facility in Austin, and the second facility in Texas.

“SGP Certification was a substantial undertaking, but the resulting improvements in our products, processes, and facility were well worth the effort,” comments Nicki Macfarlane, President, ProGraphix.

SGP Certification gives ProGraphix the opportunity to develop and implement a formal sustainability program that delivers value and results. As a credible, third party endorsement, SGP Certification demonstrates ProGraphix’s commitment to achieving its sustainability goals, while meeting customers’ expectations and providing a safe working environment for employees.

“SGP Certification is for all companies, large and small alike,” states Marci Kinter, Chair, SGP Program. “The Certification demonstrates ProGraphix’s commitment to sustainable business practices, and it clearly differentiates them in the marketplace.”

The Certification Process

ProGraphix began the certification process with regular committee meetings to encourage employee participation and communication. The company conducted extensive research to identify environmentally friendly print materials, such as recyclable banners and biodegradable rigid substrates. Today, ProGraphix recommends these sustainable materials to its customers whenever possible, and ensures that its suppliers are aware of its preference for sustainable media.

As part of the Certification process, ProGraphix also opted to upgrade its equipment to incorporate more sustainable processes. For example, its new flatbed printer substantially reduces the amount of waste produced, and the printer’s UV inks have virtually no VOCs. Other improvements were based on the safety and health checklist that supported its goal of providing a safe working environment.

About ProGraphix

ProGraphix is a locally owned wide format digital printer located in Austin, Texas, specializing in sustainable, eco-friendly retail, exhibit, event, and promotional graphics.  The company produces high-quality custom graphics including trade show displays, banners, posters (rigid, flexible, and adhesive backed), stretched canvas, wall coverings, window graphics, car and truck wraps, yard signs, decals, and bus ads. ProGraphix is certified in the State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program.

About SGP

SGP is a non-profit organization providing sustainability certification in the graphic communications industry. The organization promotes reducing the environmental impact and increasing the social responsibility through sustainable green printing practices. To receive SGP certification, print facilities go well beyond compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. They establish sustainability management systems, implement best practices, and commit to continuous improvements in sustainability. Certified facilities are also required to report on progress annually. For more information about the SGP Partnership, the SGP Patron program, or the SGP certification process, visit www.sgppartnership.org.

Contacts:

Nicki Macfarlane
President, ProGraphix
nicki@prographixaustin.com
512.371.1964

Heidi Thompson
ACE Public Relations for SGP
sgp@acepublicrelations.com
732.892.5445