How many miles is your ID card travelling?

• News

In an era where sustainability and environmental consciousness have become paramount, it’s essential to consider the carbon footprint of the products we use and consume.

One such product that often goes unnoticed is the humble ID card. At Ingenia, however, we stop to think about how far it has travelled before ending up in your wallets, and we strive to reduce the carbon footprint of our ID products every day, and change the materials we use to recycled and sustainable alternatives.

Today, we delve into the journey of ID card manufacturing, focusing on the destinations: China, and the United Kingdom.

China has long been the go-to destination for manufacturing for much of the Western world. With its vast workforce and competitive prices, it’s no surprise that many companies choose Chinese manufacturers to produce their ID cards. However, the price we pay for affordability comes at a significant environmental cost.

According to a World Bank press release, China is responsible for emitting 27% of the world’s greenhouse gases. 

This figure is largely due to the country’s heavy reliance on coal for energy production and its vast industrial output. Therefore, every ID card manufactured in China carries with it a substantial carbon footprint, when it is tagged with the additional greenhouse gas emissions from the transport of freight to the western economy.

Ingenia’s PLANETECO range of access control cards and fobs are made from sustainable materials such as recycled PVC, degradable PVC, 100% PETG, cardboard, and wood.

These materials are environmentally friendly, durable, and can be customised to match any organisation’s branding. PLANETECO cards are also easily recycled, further reducing their environmental impact.

For those seeking a balance between high-quality products and sustainable manufacturing practices, the United Kingdom stands out as an ideal choice.

British manufacturers, such as Ingenia, have adopted stringent quality control measures while ensuring low air miles and exemplary environmental and recycling standards.

Ingenia, for instance, employs recycled FSC-certified packaging for its ID cards, minimising the impact on forests and promoting responsible sourcing of materials. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the production phase, encouraging consumers to engage in proper recycling practices through their partnership with organisations like the FSC.

When it comes to ID card manufacturing, both individuals and organisations need to make informed choices that align with their sustainability values. By considering the origin of their ID cards and the associated carbon footprint, they can contribute to a greener future.

By opting for manufacturers in countries like the United Kingdom, where proximity, sustainable practices, and environmental consciousness are prioritised, individuals and organisations can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with their ID cards. Making responsible choices not only benefits the environment but also encourages manufacturers worldwide to adopt greener practices and reduce their carbon footprints.

Let’s take a step towards a sustainable future by considering the journey our ID cards embark on before reaching our hands. Together, we can make a difference.

Learn more about how you can reduce your environmental impact with Ingenia

Explore our range of sustainable alternatives to PVC. Make the switch to recycled PVC cards at no extra cost – go green without the price tag! Speak to our team now about our eco-friendly ID & Access control solutions.

Get in touch today by emailing us at [email protected] or call us now on +44 (0)117 978 4777 to speak to a member of our friendly team.