Footprint - Research - Sustainability

Following the talk they gave I wanted to explore the printing co-op 'footprint' they are known for their sustainable and ethical printing standards and practice.

I want to apply and understand further sustainable printing and how it can be achieved so to research this co op seems like the most appropriate step in developing this knowledge of practice, hopefully i can apply what is found here and effectively apply it in the future whenever possible. 

Being a workers co op means the business is owned by the workers. There is no 'boss' in this sense, things are run how they want to be with no other influence. Footprint is very passionate about people and creating opportunities and multi platform printing. 


They print a range of things from : 

This is noteworthy to consider as a sustainable solution for future printing of projects whenever possible.

• Zines 
• leaflets
• stickers
• newsletters 

Colour - Risoprint

I'm interested in risoprint as it provides a unique printing outcome as well as being sustainable, it definitely stands out against other printing solutions. Risoprint is an effective printing solution which can use quite lot of colour that can be provided in the outcome.

Although there is a lot of colour there is still limitations within the choice, there isnt' every colour available that might be wanted however its in this limitation that work can be bright and expressive again cementing the idea of it standing out and creating a very effective outcome for different content. 



The Environment 

What makes 'footprint' so unique is there ethical stand points, they are wary of the content that is produced under their workspace. 

Regarding the environment they consider the impact they can have with their printing. 

There are various ways which make them an ethical and sustainable printing solution 

Their paper stocks are 85%-100% consumer waste recycled paper. 

They don't print on glossy paper as china clay will be used in its production

They are supporting tree planting through 'treesponsibility' both by volunteering and financial contribution. They don't agree with planting trees that can be used in any way 'offset' or counteract carbon usage.

Since a lot of the printing done at 'footprint' use risograph machines, these machines aren't as  harmful with the inks and the chemicals contained in them. The printing doest require different temperatures like a lot of litho and laser printing does, they are also solvent and alcohol inks, they use soya inks (which I asked them about) rather than harsh chemicals.


Zine printing 

Although I've not explored zines that much I would like to know more about it for any potential use of it in the future.

Considerations - Risoprint

• Consider the contrast of the image and how well it can be viewed when printing 
• Make sure the design fits a4 paper 
• The printer can print 10 pages at a time
• Discounts on prints are available if the content of the zine or a campaign is something that 'footprint' would like to support 
• Printing can be done individually, 'footprint' are passionate about the DiY ethic and get people to learn how to do the pre-press and use the machines