Sustainability Policy

In business for more than 75 years, Allen Press not only strives to be a high-quality printing company and provider of services to the scholarly publishing community—we also pride ourselves on being a good citizen of the global community. In partnership with our suppliers, vendors, clients, and employees, we have worked to find sustainable resources and more efficient technology, developed new processes and procedures, participated in a variety of environmental initiatives, and promoted and supported sustainability in the publishing and printing industry. 

Continuous Improvement

Allen Press will undertake at least one new project or initiative per year to improve our sustainability, energy consumption, or pollution reduction capabilities.

These projects are monitored and directed by the Sustainability Committee, which includes two permanent members from the sales/marketing and operational sides and a rotating mix of employees from every area of the business. The committee is sponsored by the Director, Plant Operations and the Director of Marketing, who report directly to the CEO. This dedicated interdepartmental team is tasked with researching and implementing sustainable initiatives for both the company and the employees.

As a printer, Allen Press is concerned about the environmental footprint of paper and print production. While we have made significant progress in this area, it is an ongoing effort. In 2007 we sought and achieved Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC^®) certification, and in 2010 we passed our third SmartWood chain-of-custody audit. In 2008, following our certification, we embarked on a large project to convert all of our house paper stock to FSC^®-certified paper, ensuring that the bulk of paper passing through our presses originates in forests that are managed to meet the social, economic, and ecological needs of present and future generations. In 2008 we also began working with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) to purchase and distribute renewable energy certificates, or RECs. Allen Press annually purchases 250 renewable energy certificates, which offset 25% of our non-production energy use. A three-part renewable energy program is also offered to our customers. For one cent per book, journal, or magazine, Allen Press will work with the BEF on behalf of customers to acquire renewable energy certificates to offset the energy used specifically in producing their publication. Allen Press will also assist customers in their efforts to promote their commitment to sustainability through the purchase of renewable energy certificates to offset the energy used in their editorial or business office. Finally, employees can purchase renewable energy certificates to offset their personal energy consumption. Projects in 2009 and 2010 included reducing energy consumption through thermography and correction of energy loss through plant doors, entries, and loading docks; partnering with Cans for the Community for aluminum recycling; switching to low-mercury energy-saving light bulbs; and beginning a new project to replace overhead lighting in the press room, bindery, and warehouse. 

Reduction, Reuse, and Recycling

Allen Press will compile and publish statistics, charts, and other documentation to demonstrate progress in pollution prevention.

Allen Press seeks to use inks and solvents that limit damage to the environment. On an ongoing basis, we refine, reduce, and eliminate products that are proven to be environmentally unfriendly or unhealthful for our employees, our community, and our planet. Currently, we use vegetable oil–based inks for printing. These inks are naturally low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), they are non-toxic, and they produce fewer emissions that cause air pollution. We are constantly testing new products in an effort to achieve the least environmental impact possible without sacrificing quality.

On the pre-printing side of the operation, a variety of online and digital tools allow us to provide paperless workflow alternatives for our customers. We also use FLH-Z processors coupled with Brilla lithographic printing plates from Fuji that require fewer chemical changes, resulting in a 300%+ increase in the life cycle of the chemicals compared to usage with our previous processing equipment.

We also recognize the importance of responsibly managing our waste stream. We have recycled paper, aluminium printing plates, and corrugated cardboard for more than 20 years. The polywrap used for mailing publications is made of a recyclable material, and our shipping cartons are constructed of 20–30% postconsumer waste (PCW). Employees support our sustainability mission through grassroots efforts to recycle aluminum cans, plastic bottles, office paper, and home computer equipment. 

Compliance

Allen Press will proactively stay in compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations.

A full-time safety coordinator oversees in-plant safety and compliance with state and federal government regulations and requirements. The safety coordinator also serves on the Sustainability Committee in an advisory capacity.

Communication

Allen Press will share sustainability information with all stakeholders (employees, customers, vendors, and the community) through a variety of published materials and educational opportunities.

We recognize the importance of communicating with internal and external stakeholders about on-going company sustainability efforts. Regular communication is distributed through the Allen Press Facebook page, Twitter, email announcements, and press releases as appropriate. Communication includes but is not limited to new initiatives launched, certifications received, audits passed, website updates, report and document updates, and recycling events.