ROCHESTER, N.Y., May 29 -- Cottonwood Printing Co. in Albuquerque, N.M., has always believed in using technology to enhance quality and help protect the environment. Chief Executive Officer Blake Thies says Cottonwood was the first printer in the state to install computer to plate (CTP) digital technology when it became available to eliminate the need for film. Now the company has added KODAK THERMAL DIRECT Non Process Plates and a KODAK MAGNUS 400 F Speed CTP Device in its quest to become even more environmentally friendly. “The imaging on the KODAK THERMAL DIRECT Non Process Plate is a step up from what we had in terms of sharpness. It also gives us the chance to use a true process free plate, which reduces our waste stream considerably. Cottonwood wants to be the greenest printer in New Mexico and this is a major step in advancing our environmental philosophy,” Thies said. “We’re doing the right thing by going with the KODAK Non Process Plates, but it also streamlines our prepress operation. We don’t have to use as much space, the area is cleaner, and we don’t have to worry about storing and changing the chemistry.” The KODAK THERMAL DIRECT Non Process Plate develops on press, eliminating the costs associated with standalone processors, including maintenance, chemistry and chemistry handling, and floor space requirements. Customers save time and reduce variability by decreasing the number of steps in prepress. In addition, THERMAL DIRECT Non Process Plates are compatible with all popular thermal CTP imagers and a wide range of inks and fountain solutions. Cottonwood was founded in 1978 and has 24 employees. Most of its business comes from advertising agencies, graphic designers and print brokers. “Our customers are becoming more aware of our pro environment attitude and our employees are really excited to see us investing heavily in the business,” Thies said. “This is a great opportunity for us to illustrate our commitment to the environment.” As part of its investment, Cottonwood installed a KODAK MAGNUS 400 Platesetter, KODAK MATCHPRINT Inkjet 800 Proofing System and the KODAK PRINERGY EVO Workflow System. Thies said the migration package available as part of the PRINERGY EVO System made the transition smooth and the workflow is extremely operator friendly. The KODAK MAGNUS 400 Platesetter features high throughput, efficient plate handling, ease of use and image quality for four page printers. KODAK Service and Support is made up of more than 3,000 professionals reaching more than 120 countries. It is a leading multi-vendor integrated services provider, delivering consulting, installation, maintenance and support services for the commercial printing, graphic communications, document imaging and data storage industries. KODAK Service and Support professionals are uniquely qualified to provide services that control costs, maximize productivity, and minimize business risk.