Baby Announcements

Going green is all the rage these days and for good reason. Making smarter choices in all aspects of our lives saves money and saves the planet. The green birth announcement is certainly a hip way to go, but what exactly does it entail?

Of course there’s the whole recycled paper thing when it comes to green birth announcement printing. A lot of the major online printers offer a recycled paper option these days. Many have hybrid paper, half recycled, half new materials. Other printers have products that can be printed on post consumer waste pulp. It may be a few more pennies on the dollar but we all know that green will cost a little more until it becomes ubiquitous.  Browse the options online to see which would work best for your particular birth announcement.

Another option is the birth announcement that decomposes. Of course for many people this wouldn’t be an attractive idea but for some, it’s the ultimate green expression. Birth announcements that biodegrade and contain flower seeds are just adorable. The most expensive option on the market, these custom printed announcements breakdown in the soil and a new flower grows in their place; a nice option for some. If you go this route, I would certainly purchase a few traditional announcements for keepsakes.

When it comes to custom printed birth announcements, buying local isn’t always an option. Some of us live in rural areas and do most of our shopping online. Often this means ordering goods from other countries which can significantly increase the carbon footprint of your purchase. If you order online, try to stay as close to home as possible. If not the United States, choose a printer from Canada or Mexico. If you live in mainland Europe, keep your printing purchases in mainland Europe. Flying and sailing still costs more than driving.

Soy inks are another way to make your birth announcement even greener. Soy inks are made from natural materials such as plant fibers and reduce the carbon footprint and the pollution from the printing process. Some printers only use soy inks whereas others make it an option. It’s worth getting the whole planet friendly package isn’t it?

Finish your green birth announcements with recycled paper envelopes. If it were me, I’d choose a textured or rough cut recycled paper for the announcement envelopes. If your announcements don’t actually state on them they are made from recycled materials, the textured unbleached envelope will ensure everyone knows. And no it’s not about bragging about your greenness, it’s about sending the message of making positive choices across the board.

Every little helps.

Filed under: birth announcements on July 23rd, 2010