Effect of Printers on Social sustainability
The printing process has without doubt an impact on the social sustainability issue. The printing process itself affects the maintenance of a healthy community for the future generations.
For one, printers generate indoor pollution which has a negative impact on the health of the employees of corporations. Research have shown that a printer on its usage stage increases the concentration of ozone, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ultrafine particles (UFPs) which has a bad effect on the respiratory and cardiovascular system of an individual. Given this scenario, it can be said that the human rights of the employees are put at risk. The corporation therefore do not support social sustainability in their office because the quality of life of these employees will be jeopardized either in the short term or long term. Reducing the carbon footprint of printers will go a long way in increasing social sustainability because the ink used on the printers will prevent harm on the rights of employees to a safe workplace. Vegetable-based inks can instead be used for a healthier environment within the office.
The use of environment friendly inks for printers will in the long run, improve the company’s relationships with its employees. The morale of the employees and so with their productivity, will rise because they know that their company is concerned about their health. If employee productivity rises, it may result in higher salaries thereby positively affecting their social/financial status in society.
If the printer inks used for the office printers are safe for the workers, it will also generate goodwill among the company’s clients. Knowing that a company cares for their workers, the community will look kindly on the firm; thus, developing a harmonious relationship that promotes social sustainability. Aside from government, businesses should also do their part in protecting, respecting and fulfilling human rights. And even in the use of sustainable products such as a printer ink, social sustainability can be supported.
Critical comment:
One believes that social sustainability should always be part of a business’ objectives that is incorporated in its strategies. It is part of a firm’s social responsibility. They owe it to the future generation. A job should never expose any worker to a health risk; thus, companies must make sure that safety standards are in place.
References
Preton, Ltd. (2010, March). Environmental issues associated with toner and ink usage . Retrieved from preton.com: http://www.preton.com/pdf/pretonsaver_envi_whitepaperfinal_1403010.pdf
Wynhoven, U. (n.d.). Social sustainability. Retrieved from United Nations Global Compact: https://www.unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/social
