As a company, we are challenging ourselves to be better patrons of the planet. We’re aiming to reduce impact by continuously educating ourselves about and seeking more sustainable sources and materials for projects we’re commissioned to work on, for our own initiatives and in our day-to-day operations. We’re making efforts to choose wisely, even if it’s harder or less convenient. Maybe considering alternatives will even lead us down interesting paths to more creative solutions.
Here are a few things we’re working on implementing or have already done so. Can we do a lot more? You bet.
Project Related
opting for online
Using and encouraging online initiatives to save on printed matter.
fsc certified
Sourcing materials that have been made from responsibly harvested trees and seeking out FSC-certified suppliers.
going local
Whenever possible choosing local suppliers and products to reduce the environmental footprint.
more sustainable suppliers
Choosing suppliers who are holistically greener through the entire cycle of their operation and product.
Waterless Printing
Utilizing this faster, cleaner printing process that eliminates fountain solution and reduces paper waste and energy use.
recycled + biodegradable
Selecting high-recycled-content materials and products and considering their recyclability and biodegradability.
waste reduction
Reducing the material used in production and maximizing area used on press sheets.
inks + coatings
When possible using petroleum-free inks and reducing the need for coatings on paper.
Using PDFs in lieu of paper printouts and allowing for creative and presentations to be shared digitally between multiple people.
mailing lists
Ensuring mailing lists are up-to-date and accurately targeted.
two-wheeled couriers
Requesting small packages be couriered by bike. When are we getting a green taxi co. in Toronto?
encouraging green
Using green certification logos to acknowledge the environmental consideration that has been put into produced work.
Internal
paperless magazines
Opting for online magazine subscriptions.
SELECTIVELY TURNED ON
Turning on lights and the air con only when needed and not running water while we’re soaping up the dishes.
going dark at night
Turning off computers, printers and appliances when not in use at night.
composting
Sending our non-animal food waste to our building’s provided compost. Thanks, 401 Richmond.
bye-bye water cooler
Replacing the need for trucks to exchange heavy water bottles (that also have to be cleaned) with a simple tap water filter.
green and local
Sourcing office supplies that are hopefully both.
recycling + reusing
Basic but important. Not throwing out that which can be recycled or reused.
thirsty for thermal
Banning take-out paper cups in the studio and opting for a Thermos instead. Imagine how many cups we save a year!
the air in here
Letting lots of plants in the studio help clean our air and pay homage to Mama Nature.
solo promo
Requesting only one [if any] printed promotion be sent to or left with our designer group and opting out of mailing lists that offer no value to us.
recycling toner cartridges
Choosing and returning recyclable printer toner cartridges.
credentials
Letting our website be our glossy leave-behind.
Earthy Things we Like
Eden Project / Cornwall, UK
A reclaimed clay mine is now a visitor attraction that emulates a natural biome. Includes the world’s largest greenhouse.
Website
Woolly Pocket
Flexible, breathable, and modular gardening containers made from recycled plastic bottles. We love having them at Oxygen!
Website
Inhabitat
A weblog devoted to the future of design, tracking innovations that are pushing towards a smarter and more sustainable future.
Website
nervous system
Drawing inspiration from natural phenomena, this company create unique and affordable art, jewelry and housewares.
Website
Gilles Belley
Simplicity, style, minimalism and respect for nature and its resources are the common denominators of this French designer’s work.
Website
interface flor
A carpet tile company that has a Mission Zero™ promise: to completely eliminate any negative impact it has on the environment by 2020.
Website
Mountain Equipment Co-op
The outdoor company with a long-standing focus on social, environmental and economic sustainability. We love its 1% For The Planet commitment.
Website
Evergreen Brick Works
The former Don Valley Brick Works was transformed from deteriorating heritage buildings into an internationally recognized showcase for urban sustainability.
Website