York, Pa. -- The Maple Press Company in York, Pa. was recently recognized as one of fifteen businesses and organizations by Governor Edward G. Rendell for adopting environmentally friendly practices and technologies and working to revitalize communities, reduce pollution, and educate the public on the benefits of being good stewards of the state of Pennsylvania's natural resources.
 
"What these businesses and organizations and one inspiring educator all have common is their ability to view environmental challenges as opportunities to do things differently," said Governor Rendell in announcing the recipients of the 2009 Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence." Their leadership is inspiring and together we will continue to preserve and protect the commonwealth's precious natural resources."
 
The Maple Press Company won the award for its recent implementation of the THINKTech printing system, an innovative process which both dramatically reduces emissions and overall energy use. The VOC emissions are now down to three percent, a 90 percent reduction from previous levels. This revolutionary process has resulted in the elimination of the ovens and chillers normally needed for web printing, reducing energy costs by 80 percent on the initial press. Maple Press expects to annually save $30,000 to $40,000 in electricity and natural gas due to THINKTech.
 
"It's become a real trend to be a green printer," said Steve Brooks, prep/press superintendent at Maple-Vail. "But, what we are doing is completely different. It's about being green and lean. THINKTech has changed the way books are printed. The process allows printers to reduce their energy costs and VOCs while increasing quality. It's an entire manufacturing process and one that our whole team is behind. We are committed to doing what's right for our industry and environment."