A St Austell-based business is improving its environmental credentials even more after investing in new technology.
St Austell Printing Company (SAPC) has introduced ‘processless’ printing plates.
The plates, which have artwork etched into them before being used in the printing press, were previously processed using chemicals and seven litres of water each.
Using the new wash gum application from German printing giant, Heidelberg, SAPC estimates the process will save the company around 800 litres of water per day.
Gavin Rowett, part of SAPC’s pre press department, said: “The printing industry is one of the most environmentally friendly sectors on the planet.
“Huge changes have been made over the years with paper and ink development, so moving to chemical and water free plate processing technology was the next logical step for us.”
SAPC is based at the £6.2 St Austell Business Park in Carlcaze, which has been rated ‘excellent’ by BREEAM.
SAPC’s managing director, Peter Moody, who recently won the Business Leadership trophy at the Cornwall Manufacturing Awards, said: “When we were building the business park we invested in rain water harvesting.
“We were using the recycled water in the plate processing, but now with the new investment it means we can divert the water to other areas of the site and have an even greater impact.”
