PEFC certificate: a guarantee of sustainability in your printed materials
Today, environmental awareness is a key factor in the decision-making process of both businesses and consumers. Concern for the planet has driven the adoption of more responsible practices across all industries—including the printing sector. That’s why holding a PEFC certificate represents a major step toward sustainability. It ensures the responsible use of forest resources and contributes to ecosystem conservation. In this article, you’ll learn what the PEFC certificate means, how it affects your print projects, and why it can be your best ally when offering environmentally responsible products, such as a sustainable loyalty card.
What is the PEFC certificate?
The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international organization that promotes sustainable forest management. Its primary goal is to ensure that wood and other forest-derived materials come from controlled sources that follow strict environmental, social, and economic standards.
This certification system monitors the entire chain of custody, from the forest to the final product. So, when a paper or cardboard carries the PEFC seal, it means it comes from responsibly managed forests—supporting biodiversity conservation, water resource protection, and the well-being of local communities.
The importance of sustainability in printing
The printing industry can have a high environmental impact if raw materials, production processes, or waste management aren't handled properly. Fortunately, the sector has evolved in recent years, adopting cleaner and more efficient technologies. Emissions have been reduced, ink and energy consumption improved, and partnerships formed with responsible suppliers.
Within this context, choosing PEFC-certified paper and board is one of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental footprint of your printed materials. Doing so contributes directly to forest preservation and supports a greener economy.
But the benefits go beyond the environment. Using PEFC-certified materials also builds trust with consumers. When your printed materials display this certification, it sends a clear message about your brand’s commitment to sustainability—an increasingly important factor in today’s market.
Practical applications of the PEFC certificate
Any type of printed product can be made using materials from responsibly managed forests. From business cards and brochures to posters, books, and packaging, choosing PEFC-certified paper or board is a clear sign of environmental responsibility.
Here are some common applications:
Corporate stationery
Letters, envelopes, and folders that reflect your company’s commitment to sustainability.
Marketing materials
Flyers, bi-folds, tri-folds, and catalogs—ideal for campaigns with large print runs.
Loyalty cards
A widely used marketing tool for both small businesses and large chains. Printed on PEFC-certified board, they reinforce your eco-conscious image.
Custom packaging
Creative, environmentally responsible packaging solutions for products and shipments.
Advantages of using certified materials
Environmental protection
Sourcing from sustainably managed forests helps protect biodiversity and conserve natural resources for future generations.
Brand credibility
Adding the PEFC seal to your printed materials shows a commitment to social and environmental values—a big plus for today’s consumers. For example, offering a sustainable loyalty card can strengthen customer trust and boost retention.
Product quality
Certified materials are not only eco-friendly but also high-quality. Sustainable forestry practices and strict oversight result in durable, versatile papers with excellent print performance.
Regulatory compliance
More laws are requiring the use of sustainable materials. Meeting international standards ensures that your business stays ahead of environmental regulations.
Tips for your next sustainable print project
If you’re ready to make sustainability a priority in your print materials, keep these tips in mind:
Choose the right print provider
Work with print shops that hold official certifications and can advise you on the most eco-friendly options for paper, ink, and production.
Select certified paper and board
Using materials with the PEFC seal ensures traceability and a responsible origin.
Optimize your design for efficiency
Reduce paper waste by grouping multiple designs on one sheet or adjusting formats to better use materials.
Consider eco-friendly inks
Many printers offer plant-based or low-impact ink alternatives. Ask about your options to further reduce environmental impact.
Think long-term
Design materials that last. Sometimes investing in better quality and durability helps reduce waste in the long run.
Loyalty cards: an example of eco-conscious commitment
One of the most common printed products for customer retention is the loyalty card. Not only is it a valuable sales and marketing tool—it also reinforces brand identity and connection with your audience. And when printed on PEFC-certified materials, it becomes a powerful symbol of your sustainability efforts.
By offering an eco-friendly loyalty card, your company shows awareness of the importance of reducing environmental impact. Customers will appreciate the brand’s effort to implement responsible practices—leading to a stronger image and greater chances of retaining and attracting clients.
Sprint Copy: your partner in sustainable printing
In today’s competitive and eco-conscious market, you need a partner that offers effective solutions tailored to your sustainability goals. Based in Barcelona, Sprint Copy specializes in print projects that combine cutting-edge technology, efficiency, and a strong ecological commitment. From loyalty cards to high-volume corporate materials, our team works with certified substrates and guides you to achieve the best results in both quality and sustainability.
Ready to commit to sustainable printing? Contact Sprint Copy and discover how your ideas can become printed products that care for the planet—and strengthen your brand.
Make every print count.