Our Commitment to Sustainability
We, at Genesis Imaging, have a commitment to sustainability which is evident throughout our practises and with the suppliers who we choose to work with.
Photographic C-type and Giclée Fine Art Printing
We ensure that chemicals are recycled or disposed of responsibly, where recycling may not be possible. We ensure that our suppliers meet strict environmental standards, and our largest supplier, Fujifilm, are constantly striving towards more sustainable production. Their paper production processes now operate exclusively on wind energy. They also generate their own energy, and have installed a large afterburner and five wind turbines. Fujifilm has additionally recently built a joint water purification plant with neighbouring companies.
Hahnemühle, who supply a majority of our Giclée Fine Art papers, are not only committed to producing the the highest quality media but also to employing processes which aim to minimise environmental impact. The fibres in their papers are sourced exclusively from primary fibres. They use lignin-free cellulose sourced from deciduous and coniferous trees that grow in sustainably managed forests and are FSC- or PEFC-certified, while they maintain progression to future use of fast-growing, renewable cellulose alternatives, e.g. bamboo, hemp and agave, which help conserve resources.
Direct to Media UV Printing
We use a Swiss Q Nyala printer for our Direct to Media UV printing service. The ecological footprint is minimised through the printers minimal energy use: the UV printing process requires neither heating nor ventilation, which keeps energy requirements low. Furthermore, LED lamps consume little electricity and have low emissions.
In terms of the printers consumables, LED technology removes toxic waste generation. Our Direct to Media process inks are Greenguard Gold Certified due to the solvent and VOC-free properties. This certification measures VOC levels (volatile organic compounds) that are harmful to the environment. To achieve the GREENGUARD Gold Certification requires the lowest total VOC emissions levels. The gold certification standard further includes health-based criteria which demonstrate the suitability for healthcare and school environments.
ChromaLuxe Fine Art Printing
ChromaLuxe metal prints are lightweight, durable, made with recycled material and 100% recyclable.
Aluminium is infinitely recyclable and can be melted down and used to make the same, or other, products again. Therefore, aluminium is an ideal choice for environmentally conscious and sustainability-minded.
Furthermore, recycling aluminium requires 95% less energy, generates 95% fewer emissions, and creates 97% less water pollution than manufacturing primary aluminium. (Source: Multipanel UK)
Dibond Mounting
The aluminium composite panels we use for services (including Dibond mounting, Tray framing) are manufactured in the UK, reducing this service’s carbon footprint. Aluminium composite panels use at least 80% recycled content overall, and the core itself is manufactured using 100% recycled LDPE.
Framing Services
The wooden mouldings we use for our framing are from sustainable sources that are managed to meet environmental, social and economic needs for both the present and future, as certified by the FSC scheme. As part of our commitment to producing work which stands the test of time, we use the finest 8-ply acid-free and neutral PH museum conservation-quality board, which is certified by The Fine Art Trade Guild and offers exceptional preservation qualities that conform to the highest conservation standards.
Larger framed works (sizes over 60 x 40″) are backed with Palight PVC foam, which contains up to 30% recycled content. PVC is re-grindable and recyclable when reaching the end of its life. Palram, the manufacturer, produces a majority of their products in the North of England, thus reducing their carbon footprint.
Packaging
The packaging which we use is recycled where possible and we encourage clients to reuse or return packaging materials for us to re-use to reduce the impact on the environment.
ArtPakk Bags
ArtPAKK bags are a cutting-edge, reusable packaging solution designed to protect your valuable artwork. Ideal for repeat orders or traveling pieces, ArtPAKK bags feature up to three layers bonded together, providing consistent protection with 6mm of shock-absorbent material. With a reusable design and an acid-free lining, ArtPAKK offers unparalleled strength, water resistance, and temperature control. Additionally, these bags have moisture-absorbent and mould-repellent properties, ensuring the longevity of your artwork. These bags are subject to an additional charge on orders, but work out at very little for the lifetime of the product – please enquire at your time of order.
Our Website
Additionally our website, genesisimaging.co.uk, has been produced by Wholegrain Digital, a certified B corporation who actively balance purpose and profit and work towards carbon neutral websites.
Links for Further Reading
Fujifilm – Social Responsibility
Hahnemuhle – Environment and Resources
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Scheme
Full Environmental Policy
The management of Genesis Imaging Limited recognises that the day-to-day operations can impact both directly and indirectly on the environment. We aim to protect and improve the environment through good management and by adopting best practice wherever possible. We will work to integrate environmental considerations into our business decisions and adopt greener alternatives wherever possible, throughout our operations.
In order to discharge its responsibilities the management will:
1. bring this Environmental Policy Statement to the attention of all stakeholders
2. carry out regular audits of the environmental management system
3. comply fully with all relevant legal requirements, codes of practice and regulations at International, National and Local levels
4. eliminate risks to the environment, where possible, through selection and design of materials, buildings, facilities, equipment and processes
5. ensure that emergency procedures are in place at all locations for dealing with environmental issues
6. establish targets to measure the continuous improvement in our environmental performance
7. identify and manage environmental risks and hazards
8. improve the environmental efficiency of our transport and travel
9. involve customers, partners, clients, suppliers and subcontractors in the implementation of our objectives
10. minimise waste and increase recycling within the framework of our waste management procedures
11. only engage contractors who are able to demonstrate due regard to environmental matters
12. prevent pollution to land, air and water
13. promote environmentally responsible purchasing
14. provide adequate resources to control environmental risks arising from our work activities
15. provide suitable training to enable employees to deal with their specific areas of environmental control
16. reduce the use of water, energy and any other natural resources
17. source materials from sustainable supply, when practicable.
This Environmental Policy will be reviewed at least annually and revised as necessary to reflect changes to the business activities and any changes to legislation. Any changes to the Policy will be brought to the attention of all stakeholders.