Sustainable Signage: A Call for Eco-Friendly Practices

In recent years, people have become increasingly concerned about the impact of their actions on the environment. As a result, companies across all industries are taking steps towards sustainability, and the business signage industry is no exception. In this article, we will explore the steps that the signage industry is taking to become more sustainable and how it is benefiting the environment.

The Importance of Sustainability in the Signage Industry

The signage industry is a significant contributor to the environmental footprint. It is estimated that the industry produces around 4.8 million tons of waste every year, with most of it ending up in landfills. This waste includes vinyl, paper, cardboard, and other materials used in signage production and installation.

Furthermore, traditional signage materials, such as PVC and other plastics, are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. This means that they contribute to the accumulation of waste and pollution, which can harm the environment and wildlife.

However, the signage industry is aware of these issues and is taking steps towards sustainability. By adopting eco-friendly practices, companies are reducing their carbon footprint, minimising waste, and contributing to a greener future.

  1. Biodegradable Inks 

Biodegradable inks are designed to break down over time without causing any harm to the environment. These inks are made from natural materials and contain fewer harsh chemicals than traditional inks. While there is no ink available today that is 100% free of non-renewable resources or chemicals, many signage companies have already implemented the use of water-based inks, which contain no petroleum and fewer harsh chemicals. 

The use of biodegradable inks has become a more sustainable option for printing. These inks have been widely used in the packaging industry, but they are now gaining popularity in other sectors, such as signage, newspaper printing, and more. With biodegradable inks, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and eliminate hazardous waste from their printing processes. 

  1. Solar-Powered Signs

Going solar is a smart and sustainable choice for powering your signs. With solar panels, you can harness the power of the sun to illuminate your signs for free. This not only reduces your carbon footprint, but it can also save you a lot of money on energy bills in the long run. In Australia, we are blessed with an abundance of sunshine, making it an ideal location for solar power. By installing solar panels on your signs, you can take advantage of this natural resource and reduce your dependence on traditional energy sources. 

Moreover, solar-powered signs are highly reliable and require very little maintenance. With no moving parts, solar panels are durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. They also have a long lifespan, lasting for up to 25 years or more.

So if you're looking for a sustainable and cost-effective way to power your signs, consider going solar. By doing so, you can help protect the environment and save money simultaneously.

Sustainability in the Signage Industry - A Call for Change
  1. Eco-Friendly Materials

One of the most significant steps that the signage industry is taking towards sustainability is the use of eco-friendly materials. Traditional signage materials, such as PVC and other plastics, are being replaced by biodegradable or recyclable materials such as bamboo, recycled paper, and biodegradable plastics.

Bamboo is an excellent alternative to traditional signage materials such as wood and plastic. It is a highly renewable resource that grows quickly, making it an eco-friendly option. Bamboo is also durable and resistant to weather and pests, making it an ideal material for outdoor signage.

Recycled paper is another eco-friendly material that is gaining popularity in the signage industry. It is made from post-consumer waste, reducing the need for new raw materials. This material is also biodegradable, making it an excellent choice for indoor signage.

3D signage is one of the best alternatives, as it uses eco-friendly materials such as paper and cardboard. Additionally, hand-painted signage is another great option, as it does not involve using non-biodegradable materials.

Biodegradable plastics are also becoming popular in the signage industry. These plastics can break down naturally in the environment, reducing the amount of waste produced. They are also made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, making them an eco-friendly option.

  1. Reducing Waste

Another step that the signage industry is taking towards sustainability is reducing waste. By minimising waste, companies are reducing their environmental impact and contributing to a greener future.

One way that companies are reducing waste is by using digitally printed signage. Digital printing technology allows companies to print only what they need, eliminating any excess material that would typically be wasted in traditional printing methods. 

Additionally, digital printing allows for more precise colour matching, reducing the need for reprints due to colour discrepancies. Companies can also choose to use eco-friendly materials such as recycled paper or biodegradable substrates for their digitally printed signage, further reducing their environmental impact. Overall, digital printing is a great way for the signage industry to reduce waste while still producing high-quality, visually appealing signage.

  1. Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting is an essential component of signage, but it can also be a significant contributor to energy consumption and carbon emissions. Companies are taking steps towards sustainability by using energy-efficient lighting, reducing their carbon footprint and energy costs.

LED lighting is an excellent option for energy-efficient lighting. It uses less energy than traditional lighting and has a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. LED lighting is also available in a range of colours, making it an ideal option for signage.

Another popular signage option is illuminated signage, which is commonly used in retail signs. Illuminated signs are often made using LED lights, which are energy-efficient and long-lasting. This means that they not only reduce energy consumption but also require less maintenance and replacement over time. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the signage industry is taking significant steps towards sustainability, contributing to a greener future. By using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and using energy-efficient lighting, companies are reducing their environmental footprint and making a positive impact on the environment. However, there is still much work to be done. 

Companies must continue to adopt sustainable practices and explore new ways to reduce their impact on the environment. By doing so, we can create a greener future for ourselves and future generations. It is imperative that we support and promote the efforts of signage companies that have embraced sustainable practices, and encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment and ensure a sustainable future for all.

‍

Indegenous FlagTsi Flag

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.

Alpha Lewis Diversity Flag

At Alpha Lewis Signs, we believe that when people feel respected and included, they can be more creative, innovative, and successful. While we have more work to do to advance diversity and inclusion, we are investing to move our company and industry forward.