Queensland’s climate change and sustainability minister Kate Jones has described Printing Industries’ Sustainable Green Print (SGP) program as a "great branding tool for green printers” at the program’s launch this week.

Launched at Fergies Print & Mail (one of the companies undertaking a pilot trial of the program) in the Brisbane suburb of Hamilton, the SGP is designed to help customers identify environmentally-friendly printing companies, based on water usage, energy usage, and waste management.

"Printing companies can not only develop sustainable practices but can now promote their green credentials to the increasing number of customers who want to make the right environmentally-friendly choices," said Jones (pictured, centre).

"The certification program will also help companies realise the economic and competitive advantages in being green. This is a great branding tool for green printers."

"I encourage printing companies to embrace the program and, not only help the planet, but help their business."

Printing Industries Queensland president Ashley Petfield (pictured, left) backed up the minster's comments, as well as acknowledging the State government's contribution in funding the initiative.

"Just being compliant with environmental regulations is not good enough anymore," said Petfield. "Print consumers are now demanding that their printers establish and maintain transparency about the environmental impact of their business."

"Sustainable Green Print has now set the standard for environmental management in the Australian printing industry."