SUSTAINABILITY
Currie Group and partners balance sustainability with commercial reality How Currie Group, HP, and Close the Loop are helping printers turn intent into impact
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ustainability in print has shifted from aspiration to operational reality. For print service providers, the challenge is no longer whether to act, but how to deliver measurable environmental outcomes without compromising cost, performance, or turnaround times. At Currie Group, the focus has been clear: sustainability must integrate into production in a way that strengthens, not disrupts, the commercial model. Driving sustainability outcomes without adding more cost Efficiency is one of the most powerful drivers of sustainable outcomes. Digital print technologies, particularly HP Indigo, are enabling printers to reduce makeready waste, eliminate overproduction, and move toward shorter, more targeted runs. By removing plates, reducing setup time, and enabling versioning, businesses are producing only what is required. This reduces material waste, lowers inventory, and improves cash flow – delivering both environmental and commercial benefits. Workflow automation also plays a key role. Solutions such as HP PrintOS and Site Flow are helping printers streamline production, reduce errors, and minimise rework. In many cases, the sustainability benefit is simply the result of running a more efficient operation. This is where the shift is happening. Sustainability is no longer a trade-off; it is increasingly aligned with profitability. Technology and materials that deliver performance Technology continues to evolve in ways that support both output quality and environmental responsibility. HP Indigo presses are designed to deliver high-quality results with reduced waste and efficient energy use. Their ability to print across a broad range of certified substrates also provides flexibility for printers to meet changing customer expectations. At the same time, the expansion of certified media options, including recyclable and responsibly sourced stocks is making it easier to align production with sustainability goals. Programs supporting substrate
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The partnership between HP, Currie Group, and Close the Loop demonstrates how partnerships aid sustainability outcomes
waste, improving efficiency, and optimising workflows are also fundamental to running a successful print business. The conversation is shifting from compliance to competitiveness. Customers are increasingly seeking partners who can demonstrate responsible practices, and procurement requirements are evolving to reflect this.
certification give printers confidence that materials will perform consistently while meeting environmental requirements. Beyond the press, attention is increasingly turning to consumables and end-of-life processes – areas where meaningful gains are being made through circular solutions. From waste to resource: circularity in action at Close the Loop Recent collaboration between HP, Dscoop, Currie Group, Ball & Doggett, and Close the Loop highlights how circularity is being applied in practice. A sustainability exchange event in Melbourne provided printers with direct insight into how HP Indigo consumables are collected, processed, and repurposed through advanced recycling systems. At Close the Loop’s facility, materials such as toner canisters and components are transformed into new products, including recycled plastics and TonerPlas, an additive used to enhance asphalt performance. What was once considered waste becomes a valuable input into other industries. Globally, more than 17.5 million HP products have been processed through this partnership, with 8.5 million handled locally in Melbourne, diverting significant volumes from landfill. For printers, participation is straightforward. Collection programs are simple to implement and do not impact production workflows. At the same time, they provide a credible, measurable sustainability story that can be shared with customers. Shifting perceptions A common misconception is that sustainability adds cost or complexity. In reality, many of the most effective sustainability measures like reducing
Printers who can clearly articulate their sustainability credentials, backed by real processes and outcomes, are better positioned to secure and retain work. The role of partnerships Sustainability is not delivered in isolation. It requires alignment across technology providers, material suppliers, recyclers, and print service providers. The partnership between HP, Currie Group, and Close the Loop demonstrates how this ecosystem can work effectively – from product design and manufacturing through to recovery and reuse. Industry collaboration also plays an important role. Initiatives involving Dscoop and other industry groups are helping to create opportunities for knowledge sharing and practical insight, supporting printers as they navigate change. The key message is clear: the capability exists across the industry. The opportunity is to engage with it. A practical path forward Balancing sustainability with commercial reality is no longer an either/or decision. Through smarter technology, efficient workflows, certified materials, and circular partnerships, printers can reduce waste, improve productivity, and meet growing environmental expectations without compromising performance. The industry is moving from intent to action. And increasingly, sustainability is not just about responsibility, it is becoming a source of competitive advantage. Scan the QR code to join HP and Currie Group inside the Close the Loop facility.
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