The important role signage plays for businesses cannot be overstated. It reinforces their identity, plays a critical role in branding and exposure, and is often the first impression a customer has of the business. Crucially though, signage also has the potential to highlight a company’s commitment to sustainability.
Alarmingly, in 2023, it was revealed that up to 30 percent of UK businesses have yet to take any action to become more sustainable, from recycling and monitoring their carbon footprint to adopting non-PVC signage solutions.
While businesses do recognise the scale and problem of using PVC-U, with 40 million tonnes being produced annually, its wide-scale use in a range of sectors makes it almost impossible to avoid entirely. Fortunately, there are plenty of recyclable alternatives that could be used in signage, including polypropylene, wood, bamboo, glass and aluminium – resources that we often encourage our own customers to consider.
Although typically more expensive than their PVC counterparts, aluminium provides a long-lasting solution that is known for its lightweight nature and durability, as well as its ability to be infinitely recycled. Because aluminium can form a natural oxide over any corrosion, it makes it a perfect alternative to outdoor signs, such as wayfinding and storefront signage.
Another sustainable alternative is cardboard, made from renewable wood, which is not as durable as aluminium, but remains an eco-friendly option. It is cheap, easily accessible and 100 percent recyclable, making it ideal for in-store signage, displays and banners. In 2022, the East Yorkshire Council consulted signage specialists to help launch their new green transport initiative in schools across Yorkshire, The Green Tree Challenge. To align with the council’s green ethos, the signmakers highlighted PVC-free paperboard as a suitable alternative, demonstrating how specialists can work closely with organisations to enhance sustainability.
As signage experts, it’s our role to advise customers on not only the most durable materials but how they can keep their carbon footprint low. For example, one of our franchises worked with the University of Leeds to refresh a converted Victorian mansion within the grounds of Devonshire Halls with a variety of comprehensive sustainable signage solutions, including wall graphics, braille wayfinding signage, door signs, in-line with the university’s sustainability strategy.
SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES
As well as encouraging businesses on their material selection, by championing sustainable alternatives over traditional PVC, signage experts could also help educate their clients by providing them with information on the long-term cost savings and the positive brand image associated with sustainable signage.
Signmakers can be extremely valuable consultants for brands looking to enhance their sustainability credentials. As signage is the first impression a potential customer has of a business, and as consumers continually strive to become more eco-conscious, it is crucial that it represents the sustainability values and attitudes of that same business.
