Solar power generation is growing too, but it only totals 2.3% of our renewable power. Hydropower accounts for an additional 7.3%. Total annual U.S. electricity generation from wind energy increased from only about 6 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2000 to about 338 billion kWh in 2020.
In 2020 European Union nations generated nearly 15% of their electrical needs by wind power. An additional 5% was solar-generated. The five countries with the greatest installed wind power capacity are China (288.32GW), United States (122.32 GW), Germany (62.85 GW), India (38.63 GW), and Spain (27.24GW). In 2020 China added 52 GW of new wind power, more than any other country.
Wind turbines are operated successfully in northern climates. The first Canadian commercial wind farm was built in Canada’s province of Alberta in 1993 where it is still operating. Every Candian province has pursued wind power from the early 1990s ‘till today to supplement their provincial energy grids. Our mother-company, Knepper Press, an early advocate of wind power, has relied on it for 100% of its electricity since 2008, as an integral part of its initiative in support of our environment.
The long-time commitment to wind energy is only one part of our company’s ongoing practice of producing graphic communications in ways that are friendly to our Earth.
Here are some examples:
All of our paper trimmings and scrap are converted into bales through our automated scrap recovery system. These are sold to recycling mills, where they are integrated into new printing paper, towels, and napkins. Our used aluminum printing plates are recycled into a variety of products such as cans and auto parts.
A sophisticated computer matching system allows us to create new PMS colors from ink remaining from previous jobs. All of our press solvents are distilled, recovered, and used over and over again.
Unused or broken wooden pallets are recycled and find new use as mulch for gardens. Even the heat from our press dryers is recycled. Every graphic communication reflects the views of its publisher in more than one way. First and foremost there is the primary message in the advertisement, catalog, or other printed piece. A less obvious impact, but possibly just as important, is the overall public image created by the organization which published that particular piece.
Printed materials that carry environmentally significant logos such as the 100% Wind Power and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) make a positive impact beyond the basic message. You are invited to join us in making a difference as we work together for environmental responsibility and sustainability. To help preserve the environment on your next printing job, contact Dual Print & Mail now.
