Sustainability at Print Room: How We Deliver Eco-Friendly Custom Merchandise

The custom merchandise industry is inherently resource-intensive, and we at Print Room recognise our responsibility to minimise our environmental impact. While no company is perfect, we are committed to offering our clients more responsible and ethical options when ordering apparel and merchandise.

In this post, we’ll explore the sustainable materials and practices we use, highlight the importance of quality over quantity, and provide tips for creating merchandise that lasts.

Our Commitment to Sustainable Materials

At Print Room, we prioritise materials that are better for the planet. Here’s how we incorporate sustainability into our products:

1. GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton

We offer garments made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, a gold standard in sustainable fabrics. This certification ensures that the cotton is:

• Grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilisers.
• Processed under strict environmental and social criteria.
• Safer for the planet and the people who produce it.
  
  

Our organic cotton options, like those from Stanley/Stella and Earth Positive, provide a high-quality, sustainable base for custom printing.

2. Water-Based Inks

We exclusively use water-based inks for screen printing, which are:

• Eco-Friendly: Free from harmful PVCs and phthalates found in plastisol inks.
• Low-Impact: Designed to reduce emissions and water contamination during production.
• Durable and Vibrant: Our inks are rigorously tested and deliver a long-lasting finish without compromising on quality.

By combining premium inks with state-of-the-art curing equipment, we ensure that your prints are both environmentally friendly and built to last.

The Environmental Benefits of Bulk Orders

Fast fashion and single-use merchandise contribute significantly to landfill waste. At Print Room, we encourage clients to move away from disposable products by investing in higher-quality, long-lasting items.

Why Bulk Orders Are Better:

• Less Waste: Ordering in bulk reduces the environmental impact of transportation and production compared to smaller, frequent orders.
  
  
• Durability: We recommend choosing quality garments that people will wear and use repeatedly, extending the life of your merchandise.
  
  
• Thoughtful Distribution: When you invest in well-made products, they’re more likely to be valued and kept by recipients, reducing the likelihood of them ending up in landfill.

Ethical Sourcing and Responsible Production

At Print Room, we are proud to work with ethically accredited suppliers and adhere to high production standards.

1. Ethically Sourced Garments

We partner with brands like AS Colour, Stanley/Stella, and Earth Positive, which prioritise fair labour practices and environmentally responsible production. These brands are known for:

• Living Wages: Ensuring fair pay for workers.
• Safe Working Conditions: Complying with global labour standards.
• Reduced Carbon Footprints: Investing in renewable energy and low-impact manufacturing processes.
  
  

2. Living Wage Accredited Printing

Our production facility is Living Wage Accredited, meaning our team is paid fairly for their work. While this may make our products slightly more expensive than some competitors, you can have confidence that your merchandise is printed ethically and responsibly.

Tips for Creating Sustainable Merchandise

If sustainability is a priority for your brand, here are some ways to make your merchandise more eco-friendly:

1. Choose Eco-Friendly Garments

Select high-quality garments made from organic cotton, recycled materials, or other sustainable fabrics. Not only do these materials have a lower environmental impact, but they also provide a premium feel that customers love.

2. Prioritise Utility Over Novelty

Opt for items that people will actually use in their daily lives, such as:

• Durable t-shirts and hoodies.
• Tote bags for shopping or work.
• Reusable water bottles or notebooks.

Avoid gimmicky products that are likely to be discarded.

3. Go Minimal on Packaging

Reduce waste by using:

• Recyclable or compostable packaging.
• Minimalistic wrapping or branding to cut down on unnecessary materials.

4. Order Thoughtfully

Plan your orders carefully to avoid overproduction. Focus on the quantity you need and invest in quality to make a lasting impact.

Balancing Sustainability and the Realities of the Industry

We acknowledge that the custom merchandise industry has inherent challenges when it comes to sustainability. However, we are committed to improving wherever we can by offering ethical, high-quality alternatives to traditional products.

Our goal is to help you make better choices, not just for the environment but also for your brand. When you choose Print Room, you’re investing in:

• Durability: Products designed to last, reducing waste over time.
• Ethical Standards: Merchandise produced responsibly by workers earning a living wage.
• Quality Over Quantity: Thoughtful designs that people will wear, use, and appreciate.
  
  

Join Us in Creating a More Sustainable Future

If you’re ready to take the next step towards more eco-friendly merchandise, we’re here to help. From sustainable garments to responsible production methods, we’ll guide you through every decision to ensure your order aligns with your brand values.

Contact us today to discuss your project or request a free sample pack to see and feel the quality of our sustainable options. Let’s work together to create custom merchandise that makes a positive impact!