#Carbonhack No.6 – Eco Fonts save ink

We love print. However, in order to use print sustainably and reduce the environmental impact we need to make good, conscious decisions when selecting materials; paper and ink.

The demand for sustainability has forced the print industry to innovate. New vegetable and plant-based inks and a greater range of recycled paper stock and sustainable methods of print production and finishes are being initiated.

Typography is also adapting, with new eco-fonts specifically designed to be as economical and environmentally friendly as possible in print applications.

We Love this: British stationery retailer Ryman launched Ryman Eco, a free font designed by Monotype Type Director Dan Rhatigan @bijoutype in collaboration with Grey London. The font uses multiple thin lines to create each letter (making them hollow), when printed at small point sizes ink bleeding fills in the gaps. You can find out more rymaneco.co.uk

We’ve also learned about the value of using lighter-weight fonts and sans-serif fonts which use less ink and make the printing process faster and more economical.

Checklist for making good, informed print choices:

• Work with carbon-balanced printers
• Select sustainably sourced *FSC paper and print. The *FSC (Forest Stewardship Council UK) system contributes to mitigating climate change by promoting sustainable forest management, and the recycling of wood materials.
• Commit to recycling and reducing was
• Consider the environment when designing print
• Select typography and graphic elements designed to reduce ink usage
• Print double-sided this will half the amount of paper that you use
• Buy recycled paper for your office printer
• Recycle printer ink cartridges or send used ink cartridges to be refilled