We got into the ChatGPT craze and wanted to know how we can have a textile printing plant that is more sustainable. Below are the answers and our notes.
Sustainable textile printing is an approach that seeks to minimise the negative impacts of the textile industry on the environment. Here are some ways in which textile printing can be more sustainable:
- Choosing sustainable raw materials: The raw materials used in the production of fabrics and paints must be sustainable. This can include the use of organic cotton or other sustainably grown natural fibres, water-based paints or other chemical products that are safer for the environment.
At Maudlin Merchandise we already use items made from organic cotton, recycled polyester and now also recycled cotton. We soon became a reference in this area in Portugal.
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- Efficient use of resources: Sustainable textile printing seeks to maximise the use of resources, such as water and energy, and minimise waste. The use of more efficient technologies, such as digital printing or water recirculation systems, can help reduce the use of resources.
We work very hard to utilise resources as efficiently as possible. All our machines are switched off during long periods of inactivity, we minimise standby power and we also use high-efficiency LED lighting.
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- Waste reduction: Sustainable textile printing seeks to minimise waste generation. This can include the use of cleaner production techniques and the reuse of waste.
We know that we set the standard for reducing resources, reusing materials and recycling waste.
We have worked with our partners - such as TH Clothes - to considerably reduce the amount of plastic used in the production chain.
We recently acquired a machine that will help us cut the water used in production by up to 70 per cent by reusing and filtering the water.
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- Choosing more sustainable printing techniques: Textile printing techniques, such as screen printing or digital printing, can have different environmental impacts. The choice of the most suitable technique must take into account efficiency, print quality and environmental footprint.
We introduced direct printing in Portugal, obtaining high-quality work with virtually no waste. We've been working hard on the remaining methods to eliminate steps that increase the waste created.
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- Correct disposal of chemical products: Chemical products used in textile printing can have negative impacts on the environment and on workers' health. The correct disposal of chemical products is essential to minimise these impacts.
We have been working for several years to reduce the amount of chemicals used and have been searching the world over for non-abrasive chemicals that are not bad for the environment. We are satisfied with the products used, none of which are harmful to the environment or the health of our employees.
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We know there is a long way to go, but we work every day to shorten the distance until we are a company with a neutral footprint.
