Sector:  Printing
No.of Employees:  21-50
Region: London

Summary
By formally reporting on environmental performance, a company makes a public commitment - and becomes publicly accountable. For printing company Bovince Ltd, environmental reporting has also set them apart from their competitors and allowed them access to new markets.

Background
Bovince Ltd was established 50 years ago and is now one of Europe's largest users of screen process technology. A family-run firm in a potentially 'environmentally-damaging' industry, Bovince wanted to differentiate itself from competitors by investing in an innovative management programme to control its main environmental risks. They committed to the highest standards in reducing environmental impact, and recognised there would be tangible benefits in terms of improved efficiency.

In 1998, the company received a major commendation at the Business Commitment to the Environment (BCE) awards, presented by William Hague. A year later, the company won the top ACCA Environmental Reporting Award for small and medium-sized companies - this time presented by Minister for the Environment Michael Meacher. They also hold the Investors in People award for their continual staff and company development, and the British Printing Industries Federation Bronze Award for demonstrable standards of environmental awareness and control.

How they do it

• Invest in new technology. Bovince has invested in new technology to increase efficiency and reduce pollution. Their Svecia direct projection system, for example, bypasses the traditional film stage when producing large posters. As a result, the company saves around £1200 (about 20%) on a typical large billboard, and cuts chemical use and waste.

• Structured approach to addressing environmental impact. Their success stems from a formal, structured approach to assessing their environmental impact, taking steps to reduce it and reporting on the process.

• Formal assessment through external standards. They have achieved quality assurance to ISO9002, the environmental management ISO14001 standard and a performance-reporting regime accredited by the European Eco-Management and Audit Standard (EMAS).

Business Benefits

• Savings. Investments in new technology have led to real savings, such as a 20 per cent reduction in the cost of a typical billboard promotion.

• Access to new markets. Their strong reputation as an environmentally-responsible company has created new markets with organisations who select supplies on green performance as much as cost and quality.

• Preparation for future regulatory legislation. With such an excellent grasp on the regulatory requirements, Bovince is well-prepared for possible future legislation.