Sustainability starts here: Actionable steps for the label industry

Without strong federal leadership on climate and sustainability, the label industry has a chance to step up where policy falls short. The label and narrow web printing sector is a critical link in the packaging ecosystem, influencing material selection, product recyclability and sustainability communication. With industry associations like 

TLMI championing environmental stewardship, the sector is uniquely positioned to drive progress, even while regulatory momentum in Washington stalls. 

Where to start 

There are ways the label industry can rise to the challenge. Here’s how: 

• Adopt sustainable materials: Label converters can help drive demand for responsibly sourced substrates such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified paper, bio-based polymers and linerless constructions. These materials reduce dependency on virgin fossil resources, promote biodiversity and decrease life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions. Research shows that switching to renewable or recycled feedstocks can reduce material carbon footprints by 20–60 percent, depending on the substrate. TLMI members are already piloting such transitions, but wider adoption across the industry is needed to yield systemic environmental gains. 

• Improve label-recyclability compatibility: Labels often act as contaminants in recycling streams, particularly when incompatible adhesives, inks or facestocks are used. Innovations such as wash-off adhesives and recycling-friendly facestocks, compatible with PET and HDPE, preserve the integrity of the base material during processing. TLMI’s support of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) Design Guide is instrumental in disseminating these best practices. Label recyclability is more than an add-on; it’s a prerequisite for circular packaging design. 

• Minimize waste in production: Waste reduction must be addressed both upstream and downstream. In production, label facilities generate matrix waste, release liner and energy-intensive byproducts. TLMI’s Liner Recycling Initiative has helped create closed-loop systems that divert thousands of tons of waste from landfills. Furthermore, technologies like digital printing and lean manufacturing principles minimize setup waste, reduce overproduction and increase yield efficiency. These improvements not only lower environmental impact but also cut operating costs, offering a clear business case for sustainability. 

• Boost energy efficiency and renewable use: Energy consumption remains a primary source of carbon emissions in printing facilities. Implementing energy-efficient technologies, such as LED UV curing and automated HVAC controls, can reduce operational emissions by up to 30 percent. Some converters have already installed solar arrays or procured renewable energy credits (RECs) to meet Scope 2 carbon reduction goals. TLMI can further empower its members by providing access to energy benchmarking tools and incentive programs that support decarbonization. 

With industry associations like TLMI championing environmental stewardship, the sector is uniquely positioned to drive progress, even while regulatory momentum in Washington stalls

• Educate clients and brands: Labels serve as both functional components and storytelling tools. In addition to branding, they can communicate recyclability, certifications (such as the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) or ISO 14001), and responsible sourcing practices. TLMI’s engagement with brand owners and consumer goods companies can foster alignment on sustainable design choices, particularly around extended producer responsibility (EPR) and post-consumer recovery. Increasingly, informed brands demand sustainable labeling, and the industry must be prepared to deliver it with credibility and precision. 

• Track, report and certify sustainability progress: Data transparency is fundamental to credibility. TLMI has made significant strides in promoting lifecycle assessments (LCAs), carbon accounting and SGP certification. By encouraging the adoption of environmental management systems (EMS) and standardized sustainability metrics, the association facilitates peer benchmarking, continuous improvement and third-party validation. These mechanisms help build trust with brands, investors and consumers alike. 

• Engage in policy and infrastructure advocacy: Beyond factory floors, the label industry must engage in shaping the circular economy. Advocacy for policies that support advanced recycling infrastructure, standardized labeling regulations and EPR legislation is crucial. TLMI’s Regulatory Affairs Committee can help coordinate these efforts, ensuring that the label industry has a seat at the table in developing the sustainable supply chains of the future. 

In short, the label industry isn’t just tagging products; it’s also tagging along on the journey to a cleaner, smarter and more sustainable future. With TLMI providing the roadmap, converters can stay competitive and climate-conscious. In an administration that might ignore the environment, this industry can still choose to label itself a leader.