SONORA Plates Deliver on Sustainability with Purpose and Precision

When we talk about sustainability in print, we often start with broad goals: reducing waste, conserving energy and lowering environmental impact. At Kodak’s plate manufacturing facility in Columbus, Georgia, sustainability isn’t a side note. It’s part of the infrastructure, designed into every step of the process and ultimately the very essence of Kodak’s SONORA Process Free Plates.

As a Gold Patron of the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP), Kodak plays an active role in creating a more sustainable future. Rather than simply acknowledging the need for greener practices, they’ve committed to developing technologies that make sustainable printing practical and powerful. SONORA Plates stand as one of the clearest examples of that commitment.

A Two-Decade Track Record of Innovation

When Kodak launched its first true process free plate in 2005, the idea of eliminating processing chemicals was a technical milestone. Today, their SONORA line is a worldwide standard used by more than 6,000 printers around the world who trust the product not just for its environmental benefits but its performance.

Making Sustainability Practical

The value of SONORA Plates lies in what they remove from the workflow. There’s no need for chemical developers, rinse water or gumming steps. That alone leads to lower waste, simpler operations and cleaner pressrooms.

When used with Kodak’s MAGNUS Q800 Platesetter, printers can produce up to 84 plates per hour. That speed supports high-volume environments and helps lower idle energy consumption. Thanks to its Power Saving Mode, the MAGNUS Q800 can reduce energy consumption by up to 45%, helping printers cut operational costs while supporting sustainability goals.

A Global Product with Local Impact

Kodak’s approach to sustainability extends beyond product features. SONORA Plates are produced in facilities in the United States, Germany and Japan. This regional strategy lowers emissions related to transportation and reduces delivery times. The aluminum used in production is responsibly sourced and manufacturing sites follow strict environmental standards.

Sustainability as a Company Value

SONORA may be a flagship product, but Kodak’s sustainability efforts go further. In its One World, One Kodak 2024 sustainability report, the company highlights a 56 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 31 percent cut in water withdrawal. Both targets were achieved ahead of schedule.

Kodak and SGP: Building a Stronger Industry Together

Kodak’s sustainability story closely aligns with SGP’s mission. After joining SGP as a Patron in 2022, the company reaffirmed its commitment in 2024 by renewing as a Gold Patron. This ongoing support reflects a shared belief in measurable, real-world impact.

“Kodak isn’t treating sustainability as a side initiative. It’s part of how we innovate, how we manufacture and how we support our customers,” said Jeff Zellmer, vice president of global sales and strategy. “Our partnership with SGP reflects that. With SONORA Plates, we’re not just helping printers reduce waste and water use, we’re helping them lead.”

Why It Matters

SONORA Plates offer more than operational savings. They represent a mindset that embraces responsibility, values long-term environmental progress and empowers the print community to lead by example. Kodak’s model demonstrates what can happen when innovation meets integrity. “When I visited their facility in Georgia, I was struck by more than just Kodak’s support of SGP,” James said. “The game-changing impact of their SONORA plates was undeniable. They aren’t just talking about sustainability; they’re doing the work. Their leadership helps move our entire industry forward. We’re proud to have Kodak as key SGP Patron.”