Disappearing ink from Cheil China reduces paper wastage in offices for Friends of the Earth

In China, research data shows that the use of paper in offices is up 7%. It is estimated that about 200 million trees were used for producing paper in China last year, a number which is a major concern to many environmental agencies in China. One such non-profit organization, Friends of the Earth has been working with local groups to bring more awareness to this severe issue, and have called for simple, practical solutions.

Cheil China created a campaign based on a practical solution which would go beyond just creating awareness, which has been already done not only in China, but globally. The idea had to be simple enough for as many office workers to do their part to try and use less paper.

Cheil China came up with the solution rather accidentally after seeing childrens’ crayons which would gradually fade on paper surfaces after a period of time. Inspired by this idea, Cheil China created the “Disappearing Ink, Reappearing Forest” campaign with Friends of Nature.

Working with a local manufacturer the disappearing ink formula was formulated in a lab and then placed in ink cartridges which could be used in most recent ink jet printers. Simply placing the disappearing ink in the cartridges and then re-setting the individual’s computer, all print outs used this ink.

The ink on the paper, when in contact with carbon dioxide, would then fade gradually over a period of 2 – 3 days.  So, instead of shredding or wasting the paper, office workers are able to re-use the paper in the printer for other print outs.

Although the campaign has just started in a few offices in China, including Cheil China’s office in Beijing, the results and reactions have been positive. Cheil China is working on getting the fading ink produced via other manufacturers in China for wider reach.