Partners in Sustainability: NOLS

In the “Partners in Sustainability” series, we turn the spotlight on our clients, many of whom are setting new standards for social and environmental responsibility in business. All of them, of course, have made the commitment to sustainability by ensuring that their operations are aligned with their values. We invited them to speak directly to the connection between green printing and sustainability.

The 2010 series kicks off with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), a leading source and teacher of wilderness skills and leadership that serve people and the planet.

About NOLS

Founded in 1965 by legendary mountaineer Paul Petzoldt, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) — a 501(c)(3) not for profit educational institution — takes people of all ages on remote wilderness expeditions, teaching technical outdoor skills, leadership and environmental ethics in some of the world’s wildest and most awe-inspiring classrooms.

NOLS and Sustainability

As a school that operates worldwide, we understand our students need to travel to far-flung locations. We hike and paddle in pristine wilderness. We’re making a mark and not just with the incredible education our students receive.

Since 1965 we have constantly strived to minimize the footprint we leave. Our in-town facilities are designed with sustainability in mind, student transportation to trailheads and re-rations are strategically planned for efficiency. And we do things like research methods for greater stove fuel efficiency, to both lighten our packs as well as our impact. At the end of the day, our students and graduates are NOLS’ greatest contribution to the environment. They experience our planet’s power and beauty, and they understand its fragility. NOLS grads are skilled positive leaders with an environmental awareness and a strong ethical foundation. Through our students, NOLS is creating a climate for change.

Printing Green

NOLS’ sustainability efforts reach every aspect of the organization. Naturally, we believe all our printed materials should also reflect this commitment. The fact that Greenerprinter uses paper from New Leaf Paper gives us great options to work with, all of which are FSC-certified and meet our own organizational protocols for recycled content. Using products and services from GreenerPrinter and New Leaf Paper only makes sense.

Green Printing and Sustainability

Greenerprinter has been extremely easy for NOLS to work with. The online system for ordering is a designer’s dream — it’s simple, clear, straightforward and easy to navigate. But we also know that real people are behind each project and available when we have questions or need a last-minute alteration to our order. Most projects run like clockwork, others need more attention, and Greenerprinter handles both with finesse and diligence.

We like using Greenerprinter for our graduate diplomas as well as postcards, flyers, postcards, brochures and other materials for our marketing efforts. Using Greenerprinter to print thank you cards for our donors and alumni representatives shows them that we not only appreciate their donation or efforts, but that we’re also using their contribution wisely. Greenerprinter’s customer service interface and its product offerings allow NOLS to help sustain our plant’s resources at the same time as sustaining our marketing model.

Thanks to Allison Jackson for her assistance in providing this information!