✳️ PVC-free print materials – a sustainable choice for the responsible brand

In recent years, the printing industry has seen a significant shift towards sustainability. More and more companies and brands are seeking ways to reduce their ecological footprint – and one of the most impactful areas is the composition of advertising materials.

PVC-free print materials are becoming the new norm where print quality, durability, and environmental awareness all play a key role.

♻️ What are PVC-free print materials?

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a widely used plastic found in many traditional banners and advertising surfaces. While technically durable, the production and disposal of PVC pose environmental risks: the release of plasticizers and other chemicals, difficult recyclability, and a high carbon footprint.

PVC-free materials are typically based on polyester, treated with water-based acrylic coatings or other alternative surface finishes that offer:
- comparable print quality to PVC,
- greater environmental friendliness,
- lower weight (which also means reduced transport costs and CO₂ emissions),
- better suitability for responsible branding.

✅ Metroprint's range of PVC-free banner materials

Metroprint offers a wide selection of modern PVC-free materials suitable for both indoor and outdoor use:
PURETEX Mesh – highly breathable outdoor banners for building facades
PURETEX Frontlit – the most popular material for outdoor advertising
PURETEX Blockout – light-blocking banner for indoor use, also suitable for double-sided printing

All PURETEX materials are:
- 100% PVC-free,
- certified and laboratory-tested,
- suitable for high-quality digital printing,
- deliver a professional visual result.

🌍 How is carbon footprint measured?

The carbon footprint of materials (CO₂-eq/m²) indicates the amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) emitted during the production of one square meter of material. This allows customers to compare the environmental impact of different materials and make informed decisions.

Metroprint's PURETEX materials have a carbon footprint ranging between:
1.0–1.7 kg CO₂-eq / m²,
which is significantly lower than that of traditional PVC materials.

🌱 Why choose PVC-free?

Choosing PVC-free demonstrates:
- a responsible approach to the environment,
- a willingness to invest in long-term, high-quality solutions,
- a readiness to comply with new environmental standards, which are becoming increasingly stringent at the EU level in the coming years.