Why We Must Switch to FSC® Certified Printing
Malayan Tiger
The Malaysian jungle is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the Malayan tapir, mouse deer, Sumatran rhinoceros, sun bear, clouded leopard, black panther, and Asian elephant. Unfortunately, many of these species face extinction due to poaching and deforestation.
The Malayan tiger, Malaysia’s national animal, is one of the world’s most majestic creatures. Just two decades ago, around 300 Malayan tigers roamed our jungles. Today, studies indicate that only 150 remain in the wild.
Deforestation continues to make way for palm oil plantations and road construction, further encroaching on wildlife sanctuaries. If this trend persists, we may soon find wild boars roaming our streets as their natural habitats disappear.
What is FSC®?
The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) is an international non-profit, multi-stakeholder organization founded in 1993 to promote responsible forest management worldwide.
FSC® ensures that forests are replanted to minimize the impact of deforestation on wildlife and the climate. The organization guarantees that paper products come from sustainable sources.
Additionally, FSC® advises certified printers on responsible ink disposal to prevent river pollution and promotes recycling to reduce landfill waste. FSC®-certified printers can only use paper from approved suppliers, and displaying the FSC® logo on printed materials and packaging boxes signals a company’s commitment to sustainability.
A Clear and Present Danger
Singapore is widely regarded as a green city, with trees planted throughout its urban landscape, making it one of the cleanest cities in the world. However, it still suffers from significant pollution caused by offshore petroleum refineries, industrial activity, and heavy traffic.
Harmful gases released by factories and vehicles degrade air quality, while aircraft dumping excess fuel before landing exacerbates environmental damage.
Deforestation compounds these issues by increasing carbon dioxide levels and diminishing the planet’s ability to absorb greenhouse gases, further accelerating global warming. The devastating forest fires in Australia and severe flooding in Germany serve as stark reminders that climate change is a pressing threat. Opting for FSC®-certified printing can be a small but meaningful step toward mitigating environmental damage.
Climate Change in Malaysia
Malaysians are already experiencing the consequences of global warming. Prolonged heat waves lead to water shortages, causing widespread distress. Excessive rainfall disrupts vegetable farming, driving up food prices.
In Cameron Highlands, one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations, large-scale land clearing for agriculture has disrupted ecosystems, leading to landslides and floods. If this continues, Malaysia’s low-lying regions will suffer even more during the monsoon season.
The situation will only deteriorate unless we take action. Encouraging businesses to adopt environmentally friendly packaging and printing solutions is a crucial step in the right direction.
Tea Plantation in Cameron Highland
FSC® Printing During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, causing paper prices to surge. During this period, Malaysian suppliers were reluctant to stock FSC® paper due to declining demand, making it difficult to source sustainable printing materials.
FSC® must address these supply chain challenges to ensure FSC® paper remains accessible and affordable, enabling businesses to make sustainable choices without financial constraints.
The Future of Printing
When Malaysians recognize the FSC® logo or recycling symbols on packaging, they are more likely to support those products, knowing their purchases contribute to environmental conservation.
Consumers increasingly value companies that prioritize sustainability. As climate change continues to shape global priorities, eco-friendly printing will become an industry standard rather than an exception.
Conclusions
We do not want our grandchildren to learn about the majestic Malayan tiger only through pictures – we want them to experience Malaysia’s rich biodiversity firsthand.
Take them to visit Taman Negara. Show them the real Sang Kancil and share the beloved folk tales about this clever creature. Let them marvel at the clouded leopard and black panther in their natural habitat.
Climate change is an ongoing reality, and awareness of sustainable practices is growing. FSC®-certified printing offers a way to protect our forests while benefiting businesses. The time to act is now.
Mouse deer, our ‘Sang Kancil’