Trusted Resources for Sustainable Printing: Where to Start

Sustainability in printing isn’t just about switching to recycled paper or using low-VOC inks. Today, it’s a full-scale operational commitment—one that touches energy use, supply chains, emissions, and even employee engagement. But where should a printer or packaging converter begin?

The Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) exists to make that answer clear. As the only certification program developed specifically for the print industry, SGP offers a comprehensive framework that goes far beyond checklists or marketing claims. It supports real environmental performance and real business value.

If you’re just getting started—or looking to deepen your sustainability efforts—here’s a curated list of tools, frameworks, and trusted sources to guide your journey.

Start Here: SGP Resources

SGP’s ecosystem of tools and standards offers the most direct and relevant pathway to sustainable operations in the print industry.

SGP Certification
The cornerstone of sustainable printing. This third-party verified certification goes beyond material choices to address operational best practices, continuous improvement, and compliance with environmental regulations. It’s built specifically for print, making it the most targeted and effective option for manufacturers in this space.

SGP Impact Tracker
A proprietary tool for SGP-certified facilities to monitor, benchmark, and report environmental performance. It allows facilities to track metrics like energy use, emissions, and waste reduction—critical for demonstrating progress to customers and internal stakeholders.

SGP Certification Comparison Chart
This at-a-glance guide shows how SGP stacks up against programs like ISO 14001, FSC, and B Corp. Use it to help make the case for certification—or to explain why SGP covers more of what matters in print operations.

SGP Sustainability Glossary
Not sure what Scope 3 emissions are? Or how carbon neutrality differs from net zero? This glossary breaks down complex sustainability terms into plain language so you can speak confidently with your team, customers, and auditors.

SGP Certified Facilities Map
See who’s already leading by example. This interactive map allows you to explore SGP-certified facilities across North America and learn what they’re doing to reduce their environmental footprint.

The Business Case for Sustainability

Sustainability isn’t just about environmental impact—it’s about business growth, risk mitigation, and competitive advantage. These reports and studies make a strong case for investing in sustainability at every level of your organization.

Harvard Business Review – The Comprehensive Business Case for Sustainability
This widely cited article presents data showing that companies with strong sustainability commitments outperform their peers in profitability, employee engagement, and long-term valuation. It’s a must-read for leaders seeking ROI.

McKinsey – The ESG Premium: New Perspectives on Value and Performance
McKinsey’s report highlights how companies with solid ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) credentials enjoy better access to capital, improved risk profiles, and higher customer loyalty.

NielsenIQ – The Sustainability Imperative
Consumer demand is shifting. This study found that 66% of global consumers—and 73% of Millennials—are willing to pay more for products from sustainable brands. That includes print and packaging.

UN Global Compact & Accenture – CEO Study on Sustainability
Over 99% of surveyed CEOs say sustainability is key to their business’s future success. This global report offers insights into how top executives are integrating sustainability into strategy and operations.

Broader Certifications & Standards

SGP is purpose-built for the print industry, but other programs can help address sustainability in areas like sourcing, supply chain relationships, and overall environmental management systems.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
FSC certification ensures that paper and fiber products are sourced from responsibly managed forests. While not print-specific, it’s a valuable complement to SGP for companies seeking sustainable material sourcing.

Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)
Like FSC, SFI promotes responsible forestry and chain-of-custody practices. It’s particularly relevant for North American paper suppliers and printers focused on regional sourcing.

EcoVadis 
EcoVadis provides sustainability ratings based on environmental, labor, and ethical practices. Many global brands use it to evaluate suppliers, so strong performance here can give your business a leg up in procurement processes.

ISO 14001 – Environmental Management Systems
A globally recognized standard for creating internal systems that manage environmental responsibilities. ISO 14001 can support your path to SGP certification—or provide structure for multi-site operations looking to standardize sustainability practices.

Tools & Calculators to Measure Impact

Quantifying your sustainability performance is essential for setting goals, meeting regulations, and earning trust. These tools can help.

SGP Impact Tracker (see above)
Designed for the print industry, this tool simplifies data collection and tracking for certified facilities. Use it to demonstrate ROI, meet customer reporting requests, and ensure continual improvement.

Greenhouse Gas Protocol Calculation Tools
These are the gold standard for measuring greenhouse gas emissions, especially Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (indirect), and Scope 3 (supply chain) emissions. A foundational tool for sustainability reporting and reduction strategies.

EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
Benchmark your facility’s energy use against national averages. ENERGY STAR’s Portfolio Manager is widely used and respected across industries, making it a useful third-party validation tool.

Canopy Ecopaper Database
A searchable, transparent resource for identifying paper products with strong environmental credentials. Use it to choose suppliers who align with your values—and your customers’ expectations.

Stay Informed: Industry News & Trends

Sustainability in print is evolving rapidly. These sites offer updates, education, and success stories to help you stay informed and inspired.

Two Sides North America
This organization debunks myths about print and sustainability, promoting the environmental advantages of paper and print when done right. It’s a valuable resource for marketing and communications teams, too.

Printing Impressions – Sustainability
Covers real-world examples of sustainability in practice—new technologies, case studies, and interviews with print industry leaders driving change.

Packaging Europe – Sustainability Hub
Focused on innovation in packaging, this hub explores everything from compostable materials to circular economy models. A great resource if your business intersects with packaging or flexible print formats.

Closing Thoughts

Sustainability doesn’t start with a press release—it starts with systems, accountability, and action. SGP certification gives the print industry a proven, industry-specific path forward. These tools, frameworks, and sources can help you deepen your commitment and bring others in your organization along for the journey.

Ready to take the next step? Learn more about getting SGP certified