Let’s face it. Screen printing is dirty, messy, and at times toxic. From chemical waste to water pollution, this industry still has a long road ahead to becoming more sustainable. But implementing greener practices doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive.
Your choices matter. Here are simple, impactful ways to make your shop more eco-conscious without sacrificing quality.
ECO-FRIENDLY CHEMICALS
One of the easiest sustainable swaps you can make is switching to Sgreen® eco-friendly chemicals. This lineup includes:
These products are non-toxic, biodegradable, and soy-based. They’re designed to work hard without harming you or the planet.
Still using aerosol screen openers? Try Sgreen® Supreme Wash. It delivers great results without the toxic fumes. And instead of spray adhesives, switch to Sgreen® Water-Based Pallet Adhesive to avoid inhaling chemicals during production.
RELATED: Tips and Tricks for Using Water-Based Adhesive
SUSTAINABLE SCREEN PRINTING INK OPTIONS
Choosing the right ink matters—for your prints and the planet. By switching to eco-friendly screen printing inks, you can reduce environmental impact while keeping quality high. Whether you're going green with water-based inks or need a more sustainable plastisol alternative, here are two top solutions to consider.
LOW-CURE PLASTISOL: FN-INK™
FN-INK™ is a low-cure plastisol ink that prints bold and cures at lower temperatures—making it a smart choice for reducing energy use. It's a sustainable screen printing ink designed for smooth prints and serious performance. Plus, it's made by Achitex Minerva, a manufacturer that actively reduces electricity use, filters wastewater, and offsets emissions by planting trees.
- Cures as low as 260°F to save energy
- Vibrant colors with soft feel
- Ideal for shops looking to lower power usage
WATER-BASED INK: LIVING INK’S ALGAE-BASED FORMULA
When it comes to water-based screen printing inks, Living Ink leads with innovation. Their Screen ALGAE INK™ uses algae-derived pigment to create a carbon-negative ink for printers who care about sustainability.
Screen ALGAE INK™ is a non-PVC, non-phthalate, and PFAS-free algae ink made for cotton and blends. It prints smooth, cures reliably, and delivers pro-level results—without petroleum pigments.
Available in Two Styles
- Vintage Black: A soft, antique tone with a light hand feel
- Modern Black: A rich jet-black with built-in hardener and fast flash performance
Why Algae Ink Is a Game-Changer
- 200% lower carbon emissions than traditional carbon black
- 100% petroleum-free pigment
- 98% less water used in production
Each print made with Living Ink’s sustainable screen printing ink helps move the industry forward. Shops that use it can proudly display the “Printed in Algae Ink™” badge on finished garments.
RELATED: PRINTING GREENER: INTRODUCING LIVING INK’S SCREEN ALGAE INK LINE
ORDER IN BULK
Transportation is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. By ordering screen printing supplies or blank garments in bulk, you can reduce the number of shipments. That means less fuel burned and less packaging used.
REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE
Misprints happen. Turn them into test prints, rags, or donation items for shelters. Some shops even upcycle shirts into products like dog beds or insulation materials.
Film positives? Yes, you can recycle them. Just add the #1 PETE recycling symbol to your film before printing.
RELATED: How to Recycle Film Positives
CAPTURE THE CHEMISTRY
To protect your plumbing and the planet, install a filtration system like the Sgreen® Washout Booth Filtration System. It catches particles and reduces harmful runoff. If that’s not in budget, even a mesh over your drain can help.
BRIGHT IDEAS: SWITCH TO LEDS
LED lighting uses up to 80% less energy than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. Most of the energy goes to light, not heat, which means a more efficient shop. Plus, many utility companies offer rebates for switching to LED fixtures.
GIVE OLD SUPPLIES NEW LIFE
Used screens can become wall art. Old ink containers make great storage bins or even planters. Let your creativity guide you. Upcycling shows your customers that sustainability is part of your brand.
CHOOSE GARMENTS WITH A STORY
The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters on the planet. By choosing sustainable garments like Allmade, you’re supporting recycled materials, reduced emissions, and less water usage. Every Allmade shirt uses about six recycled plastic bottles.
RELATED: How We Built It from the Fiber Up
YOU HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Sustainability doesn’t require a massive overhaul. It starts with intentional choices—from chemicals to curing, packaging to partnerships. Choose one area to improve, then build from there. Your customers will respect it. The planet will thank you.