… passed a major key Initiative concerning sustainability during its last board meeting. as a result, PIA/GATF has joined with the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) to form one central location for information on sustainable, “green” printing activities. Recently within the printing industry, the importance placed on the level of a company’s “environmental friendliness” has increased dramatically. Many printers are facing a growing number of inquires regarding sustainable printing practices, and according to a recent survey conducted by PIA/GATF, over 90 percent of printers believe that their customers will require “green” printing in the future. In an effort to assist the printing community in this push for sustainability, PIA/GATF and its partners have established the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP Partnership). Sustainability is defined as the method of using a natural resource so that it is not depleted or permanently damaged. When looking at sustainability within the printing industry, there are three key elements to consider: the product, the process, and the support system surrounding them. The first involves the materials used to create the product (ink, paper, adhesives, etc.). The second refers to the manufacturing process, and the third includes the building, energy consumption, employees, and other supporting activities, such as solid waste removal and transportation. All of these elements are important when determining a printer’s overall environmental impact.