Chicago, IL - Agfa Graphics today announced that its GreenWorks program was recently expanded to include a wider pool of green printers.  As concerns over the environment have lead companies to adopt greener practices, Agfa Graphics, an early proponent of greener printing technologies, created the Agfa Environmental Recognition Awards in 2007, this program later evolved into the GreenWorks program. Today, GreenWorks recognizes and honors printers that integrate, support and promote environmentally sound practices within their facilities.  To date, Agfa has recognized 130 printers in Canada and the U.S. for their green printing efforts.
 
To become part of Agfa's GreenWorks program, companies must be current users of Agfa's ThermoFuse platemaking technology which includes the award-winning, chemistry-free :Azura TS plate and the low-chemistry :Amigo plate.  Most recently, the requirements were expanded to also include :Energy Elite, no-bake thermal plates which  are perfect for long runs and the most challenging production environments. :Energy Elite is an effective thermal plate with no pre- or post-bake requirements. This allows printers to eliminate ovens, substantially reducing energy consumption and costs. :Azura TS, :Amigo and :Energy Elite plates have helped commercial printers significantly reduce their impact on the environment when compared to conventional digital or analog plates.
 
Companies must also actively promote cleaner and more efficient printing practices, use other environmentally-friendly products and be involved in additional eco-friendly efforts such as recycling, waste reduction programs or use of alternative energy sources in their plants to be considered for GreenWorks.
 
"Developing new technologies that minimize environmental impact and provide the best quality output is a primary concern for Agfa.  And we are constantly working to achieve both," said Roger Hinds, marketing manager, CtP, Agfa Graphics, North America. A full list of GreenWorks printers can be found (www.gdusa.com/agfa). This site makes it easier for print buyers to locate green printers by geographic location.