Businesses are under growing pressure—from both legislation and customers—to adopt greener print solutions. The managed print industry is at a crossroads, where sustainability is no longer just a nice-to-have but a business imperative. Companies that fail to innovate risk falling behind as the landscape shifts towards eco-friendly, cost-effective, and energy-efficient print solutions.
Regulation: The Driving Force Behind Change
Governments worldwide are tightening sustainability policies to curb carbon emissions and electronic waste. In the UK, for example, the Environment Act 2021 and net-zero targets for 2050 are pushing the industry toward a circular economy. Businesses that don’t comply face reputational risks, financial penalties, and potential loss of contracts, as clients increasingly prioritise sustainable suppliers.
Key regulations like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes now hold manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, from production to disposal. The message is clear: sustainability isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Sustainability as a Customer Priority
Beyond regulations, customers are actively demanding greener printing solutions. Sustainability commitments now shape procurement decisions, with businesses seeking
transparency on their environmental footprint. Tools like PaperCut Grows and Print Releaf help companies track and offset their printing impact, proving that sustainability isn’t just about compliance—it’s a competitive advantage.
Industry Innovations: Meeting the Demand for Greener Printing
To stay ahead, print manufacturers and managed print service (MPS) providers are rolling out innovative solutions:
- Eco-Friendly Hardware: Modern laser devices are designed with sustainability in mind, using recycled materials and longer life spans to reduce waste.
- Refurbished Equipment: Programs like Agilico’s Zero initiative are cutting carbon emissions by 500kg CO2e per refurbished device.
- Heat-Free Printing: Epson’s PrecisionCore inkjet printers use up to 85% less energy than traditional laser printers, cutting costs while reducing environmental impact.
- Sustainable Consumables: From soy-based inks to biodegradable toner cartridges, the industry is shifting away from petroleum-based materials toward greener alternatives.
- Closed-Loop Recycling: HP and Xerox now integrate recycled plastic into ink and toner cartridges, keeping waste out of landfills.
Cloud & AI: The Smart Future of Printing
The rise of cloud-based printing and digital workflows is accelerating the shift toward paper-light environments. Smart print management powered by AI and machine learning is helping businesses optimise resources, reduce waste, and cut print volumes by up to 40%.
The Path Forward: A Balancing Act for Business Leaders
With regulations setting the direction, customers driving demand, and the industry innovating in response, the managed print landscape is evolving rapidly. Successful IT and business leaders in 2025 will treat market reviews as an opportunity—not just to cut costs, but to align with environmental goals while ensuring quality and long-term supplier partnerships.
Sustainability isn’t just the future of managed print—it’s happening now. The question is: is your business ready?
