Bob Carr, print sales representative, Thames Printing, Norwich | A greener way to print

Q. Thames Printing Co. is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. What does that mean for somebody buying printing?

A. Our clients can feel confident that they are getting paper that meets FSC Standards, because we follow the rules and procedures put forth by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Q. Are their environmental advantages to using FSC certified paper?

A. The environmental advantage of FSC certification is the protection of “at risk” forests and eco-systems. The goal is to purchase papers that are made from managed forests, as opposed to paper produced from clear-cut forests, fragile eco-systems etc.

Q. How much of a premium do people pay to print with FSC certified paper (as a percentage)?

A. The premiums have been more brand driven than certification driven. The fact is that many of the better papers that are on the market were the first to be FSC certified. Currently there are a number of well-priced brands that have become FSC certified. Finding a FSC certified paper that is economical has become easier.

Q. What is the chain of custody paper certifying process?

A. Our employees are trained to follow procedures put forth by the Forest Stewardship Council. Systems are put into place that keep a check on the paper (segregating it) as it moves throughout the plant. This ensures that the correct paper is being used for their job. Our company is audited annually by the certifying body to make sure that all rules and procedures are being met.

Q. Are there any downsides to using FSC certified paper?

A. There are two issues that seem arise most often. The logo placement and size are strictly regulated by FSC. There are times that will affect the design and the aesthetics of the piece. The second can be time. Normally, approval from FSC is within 24 hours, but a rush approval can be requested if necessary to accommodate our customer’s schedule.

Q. What are some misconceptions people have about FSC certified products?

A. One misconception is that the certification means the paper is recycled. It can be, but that is not what they are certifying. As noted previously, FSC is concerned with stewardship; the proper management of the forest and the protection of at-risk forests.

Q. Thames Printing started using this paper about 18 months ago. How widespread is its use in Connecticut and beyond. Are other printers embracing its use?

A. There are a number of printers locally that have embraced the FSC process. Thames spent a year working with FSC to become certified. It is a pretty thorough process.

Q. Does using it bring in more business for a printer?

A. Among our clients are several environmentally conscious organizations that insist on the FSC logo. Also, many corporations see the FSC logo on their printed pieces as good business. They want to work with printers that have the FSC logo available to them. In these cases, it has been helpful in retaining that work.