Penguin Random House India (PRHI) recently announced a groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionize the Indian publishing landscape. In a strategic move toward environmental responsibility, PRHI is transitioning its book production to exclusively utilize 100% recycled paper. This phased shift, commencing with the printing of text content, signifies a significant leap forward in the publishing industry’s sustainable practices.
Sanjiv Gupta, COO of Penguin Random House India, emphasized the criticality of addressing the ecological challenges inherent in paper usage within the publishing sector. Extensive testing of 100% recycled content paper by PRHI confirms its organic sourcing, eco-friendly production, and maintenance of requisite quality standards essential for an optimal reading experience. Gupta underscored the seamless alignment of this initiative with the company’s existing energy-efficient protocols and environmentally conscious methodologies.
The sourcing strategy involves partnering with an Indian paper mill to obtain 100% recycled paper, meticulously developed to meet PRHI’s stringent quality benchmarks. Notably, this paper holds certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), validating responsible forest management practices. The merits of utilizing recycled paper are manifold: complete diversion of paper waste from landfills, absence of chlorine-based bleaching, substantial reduction in harmful waste during production, and approximately 30% lower CO2 emissions compared to virgin paper production. Moreover, its manufacturing process requires less energy and water than conventional wood pulp paper.
Ajay Joshi, VP of Supply Chain and Production at Penguin Random House India, spearheads the transition process. His strategic approach ensures a seamless adaptation while upholding the company’s exacting production standards. Joshi’s leadership marks a pivotal juncture in PRHI’s commitment to mitigating its environmental impact in the publishing domain.
All images in this article are courtesy of Penguin Random House.
