August 1, 2023
(press release)
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August 2023: Global print consumables manufacturer Flint Group has solidified its reputation as the sustainable ink supplier of choice after announcing that all its Sheetfed process ink series are now mineral oil free. The full range of Flint Group’s K+E process series is now exclusively made from more sustainable formulations, under plans to increase the use of environmentally friendly raw materials and make packaging easier to recycle. From July, mineral oil will also be phased out as a raw material during Flint Group’s Sheetfed bulk manufacturing processes, meaning Flint Group will eliminate the substance across its operations. The announcement follows an internal review by Flint Group after the company acknowledged that mineral oil use does not contribute to a sustainable future. Roy van der Pijl, Commercial Director, Offset Packaging Solutions at Flint Group, said: “At Flint Group, we pride ourselves on supplying sustainable Sheetfed inks to the print industry, aiming to support our customers’ environmental objectives while reducing our own impact on the planet. “Although most of our Sheetfed ink ranges were already made from sustainable, bio-renewable raw materials, we recognised that using mineral oil in the remaining few was hindering our sustainability efforts. That’s why we’ve conducted this review and why I am delighted to announce that our remaining mineral oil-based Sheetfed process inks are now being produced from more sustainable raw materials.” Emil Schroetter, Technology Director, Sheetfed at Flint Group, commented: “Removing mineral oils from Flint Group’s Sheetfed process inks will help us take even greater action towards reducing carbon while preserving the high press performance our inks are renowned for. This announcement is a significant step for the Offset printing sector, and enables Flint Group to respond quickly to changing regulations.” Recent years have seen growing concerns over the environmental effects of mineral oil-based inks. For example, since January this year, France has prohibited using more than 1% mineral oil in printing inks for commercial and packaging applications with this limit reducing to just 0.1% by 2025, signalling the start of changing regulations worldwide. Flint Group’s announcement supports the growing regulatory movement away from mineral oil in printing inks while supporting the de-inking process by preventing residual oil from adhering to paper fibres during recycling. For more information on Flint Group and its activities, visit www.flintgrp.com or email info@flintgrp.com ENDS About Flint Group Flint Group is dedicated to serving the needs of the global Flexible Packaging, Paper & Board, Narrow Web and Publication industries, both conventional and digitally printed. The company develops, manufactures and markets an extensive portfolio of printing consumables and equipment, including: a vast range of conventional and energy curable inks, coatings and additives for Flexographic, Gravure & Offset applications; pressroom chemicals and printing blankets. Furthermore, Flint Group designs and manufacturers digital printing presses for labels, corrugated packaging, document and commercial applications. The company is a leader in colour management solutions which are supported by a Global Colour Centre to ensure colour consistency and standardisation. Flint Group strives to support its customers through a relentless focus on developing: innovative products, exceptional levels of service and the security of supply. Headquartered in Luxembourg, Flint Group employs some 5,300 people. Revenues for 2022 were €1.7 billion. On a worldwide basis, the company is the number one or number two supplier in every major market segment it serves. For more information, please visit www.flintgrp.com
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