8 Key Environmental Laws Most Relevant to Commercial Printers

Environmental sustainability is an increasingly critical concern for businesses across various industries. As the world becomes more conscious of the impact of human activities on the environment, strict regulations have been put in place to safeguard our natural resources and promote responsible practices. Commercial printing companies are also part of this equation as they use chemicals, energy and generate waste. Meaning that commercial print companies are subject to several key environmental laws that aim to protect air quality, water bodies and overall environmental well-being. In this listicle, we explore the eight key environmental laws that hold the utmost relevance to commercial printers. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is not only a legal obligation but it also helps contribute to a better sustainable future, for you individually and your company.

1. Environmental Protection Act 1990

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 is a comprehensive legislation that covers a wide range of environmental issues. It sets out the legal framework for waste management, air quality control, and pollution prevention. Commercial printers must comply with this act by implementing measures to reduce waste generation, minimising air emissions, properly storing and disposing of hazardous materials. One of the ways in which businesses could implement this legislation is by reducing their carbon footprint, by only using carbonless paper for all their print work. Although, this product is provided by many companies, many businesses overlook this solution. However, new regulations will eventually enforce an act which gives an option between a paperless office or the use of only carbonless paper – for the businesses that depend on paper. Instead of worrying about when this regulation will come into place, companies could convert now and start to reduce their carbon-footprint sooner.

2. Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) Regulations 2012

The PPC Regulations 2012 (as amended) aim to prevent or minimise pollution from various industrial activities, including printing operations. Commercial printers falling under the scope of the regulations must obtain a permit and comply with specific emission limits, operational standards and reporting requirements. A method in which companies could implement this regulation, is by following the correct storage procedures. Storing hazardous substances in appropriate containers and areas, for example by installing containment systems, will largely help with preventing accidental leaks and spills. This can, to an extent, help to minimising excess pollution. In addition, businesses should also keep up to date records of all paperwork, by constantly monitoring and maintaining proper records. Documentation is essential to meet the obligations under the PPC Regulations.

3. Packaging Waste Regulations 2007

The Packaging Waste Regulations 2007 require businesses, including commercial printers, to take responsibility for the packaging waste they generate. Printers must meet specific recovery and recycling targets for packaging materials such as cardboard, paper and plastic. This involves joining a compliance scheme, accurately reporting packaging waste data and contributing to the recycling efforts in the UK.

One-way businesses could incorporate this regulation into their everyday activities, is by working with a packaging solution company, that focuses on delaying the recycling process. This means that instead of breaking down a used carboard box, they would reuse that box for another delivery. This is done by them collecting used un-broken boxes and delivering them to another job.

4. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

The COSHH Regulations 2002 provide a framework for the control of hazardous substances in the workplace, including chemicals used in printing processes. Commercial printers must assess and manage the risks associated with hazardous substances, implement control measures to minimise exposure, provide appropriate training and information to employees. It is important to maintain proper records and comply with exposure limits and health monitoring requirements. Businesses could manage this regulation by supplying exceptional training to all employees, on how to safely handle and store all substances in the workplace. Making sure everyone is aware of all the guidelines, which enforce health and safety measures, helping everyone in your business stay safe. In addition, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should always be up to date for all hazardous substance used.

5. Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005

The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 govern the identification, handling and disposal of hazardous waste in the UK. Commercial printers generate various hazardous wastes such as spent solvents, inks and chemicals. It is crucial for printers to correctly identify and segregate hazardous waste, use authorised carriers for transportation and ensure proper disposal or recycling through licensed facilities. Similarly, to number 4, the main step which will ensure this regulation is followed, is by suppling the correct training to all employees. As this will ensure that all employees are following the correct procedures: correct storage, labelling, keeping up to date documentation, having licensed waste carriers, minimising waste, recycling and overall following the duty of care regulations which will help everyone stay safe.

6. Water Resources Act 1991

The Water Resources Act 1991, along with subsequent amendments, regulates the use and protection of water resources in the UK. Commercial printers must comply with the act by controlling the discharge of pollutants into water bodies, managing stormwater runoff and implementing appropriate water conservation practices. Obtaining permits for water abstraction or discharge may be necessary, depending on the volume and nature of operations. To follow this regulation, commercial printer companies should implement water conservation measures, for example by monitoring water consumption. Using water meters to measure usage, could allow companies to see how much water they are using and potentially allowing to find methods for future improvement. Furthermore, rainwater harvesting should also be considered by big companies which use a lot of water for their business, as this would hugely reduce the demand for freshwater sources.

7. Energy Efficiency Regulations

While they’re not a single law, energy efficiency regulations play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of commercial printing operations. These regulations include the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPC) regulations. Commercial printers should assess their energy consumption, identify energy-saving opportunities, comply with reporting and certification requirements to improve energy efficiency, plus reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One-way companies could follow these regulations is by conducting energy audits and by implementing energy monitoring management systems. This would identify areas of energy consumption, potential inefficiencies, identifying energy-saving opportunities and recommendation for improvement. Also, companies could implement energy-efficient equipment and technologies for printing processes. Looking for energy-saving features, such as programmable controls, automatic shut-off mechanisms and power management options.

8. Climate Change Levy (CCL)

The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is an environmental tax imposed on the consumption of energy in the United Kingdom. It was introduced in 2001 as part of the government’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is relevant to commercial printers because it affects the cost of energy consumed by their operations. As an environmental tax imposed on non-domestic energy use, the CCL applies to the electricity and fuel sources (such as gas and solid fuels) used by commercial printers in their printing processes. One of the ways in which businesses could implement this legislation is by incorporating energy efficiency practices and technologies within your printing operations. This includes using energy-efficient equipment, optimising printing processes and reducing energy waste. Energy-saving measures can help lower your overall energy consumption and subsequently reduce your CCL liability. In addition, big companies should consider utilise renewable energy sources to power your printing facility. Renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, is exempt from the CCL. By investing in renewable energy generation or purchasing renewable energy certificates, you can offset your carbon emissions and potentially reduce your CCL liability.

The solution

Landall offers a range of solutions which will help with some of the above regulations. Some of these include:

Print Releaf
Carbonless Paper
Toner Recycling
Carbon offsetting
Toner usage monitoring

It is advised to keep up to date with any amendments or changes to the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and any other relevant environmental laws important to commercial printers. This can be achieved by monitoring official government websites, subscribing to industry publications and seeking guidance from environmental consultants or legal experts when needed. This is essential to all commercial printer businesses, as following the correct regulations is mandatory and can help with all sustainability matters.