Sustainable Printing Inks
1. Soy-Based Ink
Made from: Soybean oil (instead of petroleum)
Eco-Benefits: Renewable, low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), biodegradable
Best For: Paper packaging, labels, corrugated boxes
Notes: Holds color well and is widely recyclable with paper
2. Vegetable-Based Ink
Made from: Various vegetable oils (corn, linseed, canola, etc.)
Eco-Benefits: Renewable resources, less toxic, lower VOCs
Best For: Newspapers, packaging, biodegradable labels
Notes: Similar to soy ink, but may include a blend of oils
3. Algae Ink
Made from: Algae cells
Eco-Benefits: Carbon-negative, renewable, compostable
Best For: Paper and packaging with minimal environmental impact
Notes: One of the most sustainable options, but still emerging in availability
4. Water-Based Ink
Made from: Pigments suspended in water (often combined with natural binders)
Eco-Benefits: Low VOCs, easy to clean, non-toxic
Best For: Cardboard, kraft paper, compostable bags
Notes: Common in screen printing and eco-friendly mailers
5. UV-Curable Ink (Low-VOC)
Made from: Photoinitiators and monomers cured under UV light
Eco-Benefits: No solvents, instant curing reduces waste
Best For: Labels, plastic or metal surfaces
Notes: Not biodegradable, but better than solvent-based inks due to low emissions
6. Aqueous Ink
Made from: Water + dye or pigment
Eco-Benefits: Non-toxic, recyclable, minimal environmental impact
Best For: Sustainable print-on-demand packaging, textiles, and labels
Notes: Similar to water-based, often used in digital printing
7. Natural Pigment Ink
Made from: Minerals, plants, insects (e.g., indigo, charcoal, beetroot)
Eco-Benefits: Biodegradable, minimal processing, traditional and safe
Best For: Artisanal or handmade packaging, heritage brands
Notes: Limited color range, but highly sustainable
🚫 Avoid:
Petroleum-Based Inks (Traditional ink): High VOCs, non-renewable, toxic waste
Solvent-Based Inks: Harmful emissions, poor recyclability, not biodegradable