The Environmental Benefits of Print-On-Demand Greeting Cards

Sending a greeting card is a simple way to connect with family and friends, whether for a birthday or to celebrate a new job, or to show support in times of need… or just because you love them!
But what if that card could also help reduce waste and protect the environment? That’s exactly what print-on-demand greeting cards offer, combining thoughtful communication with a more sustainable approach to printing.
Traditional card production often involves printing huge batches that sit in warehouses or on shop shelves, with unsold stock eventually heading to landfill. Print-on-demand greeting cards, on the other hand, are made only when you order them. This means far less waste and no overproduction, which is a win for both the environment and your conscience.
What’s more – with print-on-demand you have the opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint because cards don’t need to travel halfway across the country (or the world) before they reach you. Choosing an eco-friendly printer close to home, means that you’re helping reduce unnecessary mileage while supporting sustainable business practices.
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Our commitment to sustainable printing.
As an eco-friendly card printer, The Imaging Centre takes pride in going beyond the basics when it comes to sustainability.
We offer recycled and responsibly sourced paper, which ensures your greeting card not only looks beautiful but is also kinder to forests, wildlife and waterways.
By delivering directly to retailers, we are cutting down on unnecessary transport and carbon emissions. Additionally, our state-of-the-art warehouse is supported by solar power, our presses are carbon neutral, our inks are vegan-friendly, and our company cars are all electric.
We also make sure every sheet of paper is used wisely, and any leftover scraps, plus press consumables and foil offcuts, are responsibly recycled.
Over the years, we have significantly reduced our plastic usage and invested in smart, sustainable packaging that protects your products without the need for bubble wrap. While we still offer recyclable cello wraps for those who require them, a variety of eco-friendly alternatives are also available, allowing you to select the best option for your brand.
We proudly hold FSC® Certification (C001869), demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that exceptional greeting cards do not come at an environmental cost.
Supporting a Circular Economy
Looking at the bigger picture, print-on-demand is part of a wider movement toward a circular economy, which means creating only what’s needed, when it’s needed, whilst using materials that can be reused or recycled. It’s about respecting resources and rethinking how we consume, without losing the joy of sending something personal and heartfelt.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Alongside its environmental benefits, print-on-demand also offers clear financial advantages, particularly for publishers who are just starting out. By printing only what you need, when you need it, you avoid the risks of bulk ordering and the challenge of having money tied up in unsold stock.
As an artist or publisher, choosing print-on-demand greeting cards may feel like a small act, but when multiplied by millions of senders, the impact is huge. It’s proof that sustainable choices can be simple, accessible and still deeply meaningful.

Ready to print your own greeting cards?
To find out more about how The Imaging Centre can support your card printing with small-batch, sustainable printing on-demand, get in touch today!
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