More and more authors, designers, and organizations want to have their books printed not only beautifully, but also responsibly. Fortunately, there are plenty of options today to produce your book sustainably without compromising on quality. Especially for small print runs, you can make conscious choices that make a difference. In this blog, we show how sustainable book printing works and what to look out for if you want to create an eco-friendly publication.
Why sustainability is important in book printing
Books are tangible, valuable, and often intended to be kept for a long time. However, the production of paper, ink, and transport has an impact on the environment. It is precisely by making conscious choices regarding print run, materials, and the printing process that you can limit that impact. And the beauty of it is: with small print runs, you actually have a great deal of control over the entire process.
For those who want to publish consciously, from family books to anniversary editions, sustainable book printing is therefore a logical step.
Printing in small runs = less waste
If you choose to print a book in a small run, you only print what you really need. You avoid unnecessary stock, waste, or discarded books. This is not only more efficient but also better for the environment. Moreover, at Bookadew, it is possible to print additional copies later if you notice that demand persists. This way, you keep production perfectly balanced with demand.
Environmentally friendly materials and options
There are several ways to make your book greener:
- Paper with FSC or PEFC label
All books at Bookadew are printed on FSC-certified paper from sustainably managed forests specifically planted for paper production. The paper industry does not use trees from tropical rainforests in this process. This ensures you receive a professional-looking book and make a responsible choice for the environment. - Recyclable and uncoated paper
Paper without coating or gloss is easier to recycle. Moreover, it gives your book a natural, matte appearance. - Eco-friendly inks
At Bookadew, we use inkjet printing technology powered by green energy. Our inks consist of 95% water and 5% recyclable pigment, and contain no harmful chemicals. This allows us to combine razor-sharp quality with minimal environmental impact. - Compact formats and smart page choices
A smaller book format or a smart layout results in lower paper consumption without compromising on readability or style.
Local production and efficient shipping
Another sustainable choice lies in the supply chain surrounding printing. By producing locally and shipping within the Netherlands or Belgium, you avoid unnecessary transport kilometers. Here too, the rule applies: the closer to home, the less impact.
At Bookadew, everything is printed in-house. This allows us to maintain control over production, limit waste, and deliver faster and more environmentally friendly.
We produce locally, so the impact of transport is minimal. Our books are delivered by DHL.
DHL delivers the packages/pallets CO2 neutrally. The vehicle fleet is becoming increasingly electric.
Finally
Printing a book doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment. By consciously choosing small print runs, sustainable paper, and efficient production, you make a difference. Not only for your readers, but also for the world around you. And that gives your book just that little bit of extra value.
Books are made to be kept. They are cherished, reread, passed on, or end up on the bookshelf – not in the trash.
Contact us for advice or explore the possibilities for responsible materials and production. At Bookadew, we are happy to think along with you.