Sustainability
Certification
We are certified to manufacture labels and tags using materials from sustainable sources, should our customers need them. This means customers can be confident that their label materials come from a genuinely sustainable source.
Recycled label materials
We have sourced high quality approved label substrates and tag materials with up to 100% recycled materials. Label backing paper which contains material from sustainable sources is also available.
Recyclable label materials
Recyclable label material can be matched to your product packaging to ensure overall recyclability is maintained for the consumer. We rigorously test all new materials to ensure they remain fully functional and fit for purpose.
Zero labels to landfill
To help meet our own environmental aspirations we have signed up of the British Printing Industry Federation waste management scheme; pledging to reduce the amount of label waste that ends up in landfill.
Recyclable packaging
We can supply recyclable cardboard label roll cores, or even trial coreless rolls to eliminate waste altogether. Outer cartons are, of course, recyclable cardboard and carton labels can be printed on recyclable paper too. Even the finer detail, like the humble roll end seal can support your green agenda.
Smart label design
We work with customers to reduce their carbon footprint by redesigning labels and tags to use less raw material. We can trial smaller labels to minimise waste and thinner caliper label substrates to reduce weight. Find out more about how a Green Label-Audit could benefit your business.
Labels per roll calculator
The calculator will give you a good indication of the most efficient roll size you could be using for overprinted labels and tags. Maximising the number of labels per roll could save you money.
*Please check your printer manual for maximum diameter
Please contact our technical team before finalising your label order.
Frequently Asked Sustainability Questions
How can I make my labels more sustainable?
There are many ways to make your label and tags more sustainable, from reducing label size to thinner label materials. You can read about eco-friendly label options here. Please contact our team and ask for a no obligation Green Label Audit for the best way to explore sustainable options for your label specification.
How do I arrange a Green Audit for my labels?
If you would like a member if our experienced customer team to conduct a Green Audit of your labels and tags please get in touch with us. You don’t have to be a customer to request a Green Label Audit, and you are under no obligation to follow through on our suggestions.
What’s the difference between recyclable labels and labels made from recycled materials?
Recyclable labels are made from substrates that can be easily recycled after they are used. If they are operational labels, it would be down to the business user to recycle. Pack front labels would be recycled by the end consumer.
Labels made from post-consumed or previously used materials are referred to as labels made from recycled materials. There are some restrictions around which recycled materials are food safe. Please get in touch for precise material specifications and uses.
Labels can, of course, be both made from recycled materials and be recyclable.
What is the difference between water washable and water dispersible labels?
Often referred to under the generic term water removeable labels, water washable and water dispersible labels have their own distinct properties.
In brief, water dispersible labels, sometimes called water soluble labels, break down completely when in contact with water. By contrast, for water washable labels only the adhesive breaks down, leaving the removed label substrate intact.
Water washable labels are usually preferred by food manufacturers who outsource their tray and container cleaning. You can read more about the difference between water washable and water dispersible labels in the ‘products’ section of our website.
What is the difference between compostable and biodegradable labels?
Often the terms compostable labels and biodegradable labels are used interchangeably. However, they are not strictly the same. A biodegradable label will break down naturally, but there is no specific time frame for the process – it could take weeks, months or even years. Some biodegradable materials need specific conditions to breakdown and can leave toxic residues.
Compostable labels on the other hand breakdown to produce nutrient-rich soils that are nontoxic and can be reused. Some label substrates are termed ‘home compostable’, meaning they will break down in domestic compost bins, whilst others are more suited to disposal in industrial composting facilities.
How can I calculate the most economical specification for my labels?
The best way to decide on the perfect label specification is to talk to one of our experts! Our aim is to work with you to understand your exact requirements and objectives, suggest and test various label solutions, then manufacture your perfect label.
We’ve found that the best starting point is often a visit to your operation and an open discussion about what’s working and where the glitches occur. Our labels and tags are customised to meet your needs.
Does Piroto have any environmental accreditation?
Yes, we are a Planet Mark certified business. That means we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint year on year. If you would like a copy of our certification, you can find it on the technical resources page of our website.