Dragon Signs Certification As A Carbon Measured Operation

In an era where environmental sustainability is not just a choice but a necessity, businesses across the globe are stepping up to play their part in mitigating climate change. Among these forward-thinking entities, we have emerged as a beacon of responsible business practices. The recent accolade of being certified as a Carbon Measured Operation marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards environmental stewardship.

This certification is not merely a badge of honour; it symbolises our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and actively contributing to the global effort against climate change. It stands as testament to our dedication to not only excel in the signage industry but also in its impact on the planet.

Our Efforts

As an ISO14001 accredited company. We are committed to becoming Carbon neutral by 2030, with aspirations of achieving Carbon negativity.

Working with ‘Carbon Quota’ to accurately audit emissions, we will receive tailored recommendations for carbon reduction. Our team are also actively engaged in data collection and monitoring to enhance our sustainability practices.

We place a strong emphasis on researching and implementing efficient practices to minimise waste generation. Actively promoting the recovery, recycling, and reuse of materials and products across all operations.

Whenever possible, signage is separated into its constituent materials and recycled through supplier’s programmes. An example of this, is our work with ‘Sticky Fingers’, a local street food venue who regularly change guest vendors. Rather than reproducing the entire sign, which would lead to increased emissions through their supply chain, we collected the existing acrylic alternative which is comprised of 75% recycled material and is itself recyclable. We then removed the vinyl, which is recycled through ‘Metastream’, and replaced with the new vendor’s logo.

Our main vinyl supplier, Metamark, operates a circular recycling program, minimising landfill waste and conserving natural resources and energy. They also collect empty rolls and endcaps for reuse. Offcuts of Foamex are collected by their supplier to be recovered, reducing our landfilled waste.

We now have capabilities to print using solvent free inks on a roll-to-roll printer, to vinyl, magnetic, and banner materials. By reducing their solvent use, they limit the amount of volatile organic compounds released, which pollute water systems and soils.

We always configure artwork with minimal print bleed, maximising material yield to limit waste. These offcuts are collected by suppliers for appropriate disposal/recycling.

Our business has proudly achieved 80% recycling rate for our overall waste and improved energy efficiency by implementing ‘Smart Gedi’ in offices and production areas to control consumption and lighting.

Future Sustainability Goals: What’s Next For Dragon Signs After Certification?

Following the significant milestone of achieving carbon-measured certification, Dragon Signs is now embarking on a journey towards even more ambitious sustainability goals. The certification marks just the beginning; the next phase focuses on reducing carbon emissions further by integrating renewable energy sources across all operations. Plans are underway to transition to solar power for manufacturing processes and a transition to our vehicles. The company is also committed to fostering partnerships with suppliers who prioritise sustainability, ensuring that every step of the supply chain contributes positively to ecological conservation. Through these initiatives, Dragon Signs aspires to set new industry standards for environmental responsibility.