CERTIFIABLY SUSTAINABLE

Inspired by the release of the Academy’s first sustainability and climate action plan (see our feature story, “For the Sustainable Future,” page 32), we asked, “What can we do to make this issue of The Exeter Bulletin better align with the school’s environmental mission?”

Paper

First, we looked at our paper. Sourcing sustainable paper proved challenging. You’ll notice this edition uses three different paper stocks. While they are all certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), their environmental impact differs. Our cover paper was produced in mills powered by 66% renewable energy and holds additional certification from the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. It’s also lighter than our usual stock, reducing the magazine’s overall weight and the carbon produced during shipping. The first 48 interior pages are printed on Groundwood paper, a low-chemical option made from whole coniferous trees. Class notes are printed on our standard paper, which has always been FSC-certified.

With paper selected, we turned our attention to other factors of Bulletin production and made more sustainable choices when we could.

Ink

While ink is predominantly petroleum based, our ink is certified by the American Soybean Association and contains 25% to 30% renewable materials with soybean oil, linseed oil and gum resin (harvested from pine trees) being key components.

Binding

Our binding uses a small amount of plastic-based glue. It is strong, lightweight, affordable and recyclable.

Finish

We chose an uncoated paper for our cover. Uncoated paper contains fewer chemical layers than coated paper and is generally preferred by recycling mills.

Shipping

Sustainability considerations extended to distribution as well. We regularly update our circulation list to limit duplicates and reduce wasteful shipping. Our couriers are taking steps to reduce emissions and offset those they cannot abate. Additionally, all shipments with UPS are carbon neutral and the bags that our international edition is sent in are biodegradable.

Waste

Our printer, Cummings Printing, recycles all paper waste and aluminum plates used in production. Every piece of this magazine can be recycled, and we encourage you to recycle your Bulletin after thoroughly enjoying it!

This update was written by Ben Harriton, a junior designer and The Exeter Bulletin’s production coordinator. He spent months researching available sustainable options for the print production and mailing of this edition. At every stage of the process, he helped us discover just how much each decision impacted both the price and sustainability of the project.

Looking to the future, we’re thinking about developing an all-digital version of The Exeter Bulletin. Is that an option you would be interested in? Scan here to let us know. >