I’m not sure If I’m posting this in the right area, but I would love to start a forum topic on printing methods and their relative environmental impacts:

I was recently researching engraving as a commercial printing option and was having a hard time finding info on whether or not this is a sustainable practice. I found a couple mentions to it being the best option because the inks are water based, but what about the acid wash and the other chemicals that make the plate? Or the copper plate itself? Does anyone have an answer to this question?

I have Brian Dougherty’s “Green Graphic Design” book, which is a great reference, but couldn’t find engraving mentioned, though I plan to reread the book anyway. So any help would be much appreciated, and feel free to mention other printing methods as well.

Thank you!

Regards,
Gage Mitchell, AIGA

:: Branding & Design
:: GageMitchell.com

I didn’t come across engraving-specific life cycle assessments in my research for “Green Graphic Design,” but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. I found it most useful to seek out academic studies and research backed by municipal agencies or NGOs. A quick Google search returns a Dupont-sponsored study comparing gravure to flexo, and an academic LCA of dollar bill engraving. Not exactly what you’re looking for, but it’s a start.

I think you’ll find that it’s very difficult to gain much certainty if the only available sources are from vendors/marketers with a vested interest in promoting a particular product or method.

If you find real source data, please post it here. Thanks!

Mohawk attended the IEGA (engraver’s conference) last weekend and asked board member Hugh Griffin of Stuart F. Cooper in LA. He said that engraving inks are water-based. The acid “wash” and all other chemistry used are captured and properly disposed.
All metal is captured and recycled. Solvents are not a factor in this type of printing. I also noted in a recent post by Nancy Collins that engraving plates are typically saved and re-used many times. Hope this helps!