John Jenkins (pictured), one of the joint companies’ three shareholders, said the coatings and laminations used are biodegradable and can be recycled in New Zealand.

“It is definitely an environmental commitment,” said Jenkins.

“There has been a huge amount done in the printing industry generally towards being more environmentally friendly. The chemicals and inks that are used and the recycling – it is a pretty clean industry now and we are just doing our part,” he added.

Jenkins said there was “some cost” involved in the development, which included trialling different substances with major paper recycler Carter Holt Harvey.

He added that the proprietary processes developed meant the companies were actually using less of the substances while maintaining gloss levels, as magazine covers are roller-coated and then spot UV coated.

Jenkins said the environmentally friendly move had only recently completed and the two companies had not yet been able to fully market the benefits, but added that he hoped the development would prove beneficial for clients.

Pacific has 15 staff while Graphic Lamination has 10 staff over two sites.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter