THE PROBLEM: DIGITAL OVERLOAD
Marketers often assume that moving to digital is the most sustainable choice. No paper, no printing, less impact, right?
The truth is more complex.
Digital has hidden costs that are easy to overlook:
Energy demand from massive data centers powering cloud storage and streaming.
E-waste from short device lifespans. 62 million metric tons produced in 2022, with less than 25% properly recycled (WHO).
Recycling imbalance. While 68% of paper is recycled globally, e-waste recycling lags far behind (WEF).
Digital isn’t automatically green. In fact, without responsible practices, it can be just as resource intensive as print.
The Reality: Print Can Be the Responsible Choice
When produced thoughtfully, print can support sustainability while delivering meaningful impact:
- Recycling leadership: Paper is among the most recycled materials on the planet.
- Credibility boost: Studies show people are more likely to recall information from print compared to digital ads (Adweek).
- Hybrid innovation: Amazon’s printed holiday catalog, updated with QR codes and interactive stickers, proved that sustainable print and digital can work together to engage modern audiences (AdAge).
At SeaChange, we enable this shift with:
- FSC®-certified stocks and eco-friendly inks.
- Targeted production to minimize waste and maximize ROI.
- Purpose-Powered Promo with long-lasting branded items designed for usefulness, not landfill.
Looking for inspiration to make your campaigns more sustainable?
Browse our Sustainable Lookbook for real examples of eco-conscious promo.
Why It Matters: Eco-Credibility = Brand Credibility
Sustainability has become a core expectation. Audiences are quick to spot “greenwashing” and demand proof, not promises. Responsible print offers tangible evidence of commitment. Something a digital-only approach can’t show.
For marketers, it’s an opportunity to:
- Stand out in a fatigued digital world with something physical and trusted.
- Give procurement teams defensible sustainability choices.
- Build brand credibility through action, not just claims.
The Impact: Sustainability That Strengthens Your Brand
Sustainable marketing is about mindset, not just the materials. Thoughtful production choices signal care, responsibility, and intention. They tell your audience you’re here for the long term and that you’re willing to do things the right way.
When you make sustainability tangible, you turn it from a claim into a competitive advantage.
Show your audience what sustainability looks like. Let’s create marketing that’s both impactful and environmentally responsible.
