“Sustainability in Screen Printing Units is The Need of The Hour”

31 March 2025: Vijay Sanghvi, Managing Director of Shreeji Screen and Filters (P) Ltd. Shares his Thoughts on the Upcoming Trends and Prospects for Future of ‘Green’ Manufacturing.

A ‘Green’ manufacturing facility for a screen printing unit focuses on reducing environmental impact while maintaining high-quality production. This involves sustainable materials, energy-efficient processes, and responsible waste management. Key aspects of a ‘Green’ screen printing facility would be as follows:

1. Eco-friendly Inks & Chemicals
· Use water-based or soy-based inks instead of solvent-based inks.
· Avoid PVC and phthalates in plastisol inks.
· Use biodegradable or non-toxic cleaning agents for screen reclamation.

2. Sustainable Screens & Mesh
· Use recyclable or reusable mesh for printing.
· Optimize screen tensioning and reclaim screens efficiently to reduce waste.
a) Source Sustainable Materials – The choice of materials used in screen printing can greatly impact sustainability. Select eco-friendly substrates, such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fabrics, for printing on garments. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional options.
b) When sourcing paper products for printing on flat surfaces, opt for recycled or FSC-certified papers. By choosing sustainable materials, you contribute to the reduction of deforestation and support responsible resource management.
c) Communicate with your suppliers and request information about their sustainability practices and certifications to ensure alignment with your values.

3. Energy Efficiency
· Install LED lighting and energy-efficient dryers (infrared or forced-air systems).
· Use solar panels to power equipments.
· Optimize press operations with automated registration to reduce test prints.

4. Waste Reduction & Recycling
· Implement a closed-loop water recycling system for screen washing.
· Use digital proofing to reduce paper and test prints.
· Recycle scrap fabric and unused inks.
a) Water usage is another significant area where screen printers can make a positive impact on sustainability. Implement water-saving measures in your printing process, such as using water-efficient equipment, reusing water when possible, and properly maintaining your equipment to prevent leaks and wastage.
b) Additionally, consider using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions that are not harmful to water sources. Water is important to the screen printing process, but reducing your usage can be a great push towards a sustainable business.

5. Green Building & Layout
· Design with natural lighting and ventilation.
· Use eco-friendly insulation and temperature control systems.
· Follow LEED or IGBC certification for sustainability compliance.

6. Smart Manufacturing & Automation
· Implement IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of ink usage and power consumption.
· Use automated screen reclaiming systems to reduce water and chemical waste.
· Employ AI-driven quality control to minimize rejects and reprints.

7. Educate and Collaborate
· Sustainability in screen printing goes beyond individual efforts
· Customers who are environmentally conscious will often try to shop at places that commit to sustainability.
· Means you can create a loyal and sometimes bigger customer base.
a) Collaborate with other like-minded businesses and organizations to share best practices and develop innovative solutions for increasing sustainability. By working together, you can find new and better solutions and support for each other’s businesses.
b) Consider joining industry associations or networks that focus on sustainable practices to stay updated on the latest trends and developments.

Origins and Evolution ….
Established in 1986, Shreeji Screen and Filters (P) Ltd. have successfully emerged as a manufacturer, and exporter of high-quality Screen Printing and Flour Mill Mesh. Offered products range consists of Screen Printing Mesh, Flour Mill Mesh, and Nylon Tea Bag. All offered products are manufactured using quality tested components and latest technology as per industry norms. Our range has gained trust owing to the features like lightweight, low maintenance, compact design and easy to use. Also, we are offering Sporting Goods Screen Printing Mesh Service.

Benefits of a Green Screen Printing Unit ..
– Lower costs (energy and material savings).
– Compliance with environmental laws (reducing regulatory risks).
– Improved brand image (attracting eco-conscious customers).
– Sustainable business growth (future-proofing against shortages).

Think of sustainability as an opportunity for innovation and positive change. By collectively adopting these strategies, you can pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future in screen printing.

www.shreejifilters.com