GREEN @ BEST PRESS
Rachael Young, Editorial Assistant -- graphic arts online, 8/1/2007
Five years ago, 80-employee Best Press initiated an effort to use natural resources responsibly. Now the Addison, TX firm is one of a handful of U.S. printers with certifications from two non-profit forestry agencies: the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forest Initiative.
“This kind of environmental award isn’t just about collecting and recycling paper,” says Michael Heischman, COO. “It is practicing sustainable forestry management so that needs of current generations are met without compromising needs of future generations.” SFI and FSC certification assures Best Press end consumers that what they receive was made with materials from a responsibly managed forest.
In 2002, Best Press replaced its front office and production areas with more energy-efficient lighting, using longer-lasting bulbs that resulted in less landfill waste and also lower electrical loads.
In 2005, the full-service commercial printer upgraded its air conditioning system—28 rooftop units—with a centralized chiller system. Best Press also recycles any metal equipment that cannot be sold, such as vending machines and metal shelving.
On average, Best Press recycles 65 to 70 tons of paper each month, saving more than 6,000 cubic feet of landfill space and over 1,000 trees. Additionally, more than eight tons of aluminum printing plates are recycled annually, saving over 101,000 kilowatt hours of electricity compared to newly smelted aluminum. The company began minimizing water used (or wasted) by installing a single processing system that supplies water to a centralized fountain solution system feeding all presses. Best Press also recycles worn press rollers by replacing the rubber, which eliminates additional waste disposal.
Founded in 1993 by Wendy Kalisher, Best Press operates two shifts, six days a week. The green company boasts numerous certifications: The State of Texas certified it as a HUB (Historically Underutilized Business); the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and the North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency certified it as a Women Owned and Operated business.
The commercial printer specializes in digital and offset printing, binding, and mailing and fulfillment. It operates three digital presses—a Xerox DocuColor 8000 and two black-and-white digital printers; a 40´´ 8-color Komori Lithrone, and 40´´ and 28´´ Mitsubishi 6-color sheetfed offset presses. The bindery includes folders, a stitcher, cutters, a diecutter and shrinkwrapping. Best Press is developing marketing collateral to promote its sustainable operations, with plans to publicize it at its Website’s “Environmental Responsibility” page. www.bestpress.com
