Sustainable development is at the heart of global efforts to address climate change, reduce inequality, and build resilient systems. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure—represented by UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9—play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives. By fostering sustainable industrialisation, encouraging innovation, and building resilient infrastructure, SDG 9 drives progress across sectors. One remarkable example of innovation in action is Living Ink, a company revolutionising the printing industry with algae-based pigments that support sustainability, environmental protection, and economic equality.
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Industrial processes often rely on non-renewable resources and generate significant environmental harm, including greenhouse gas emissions and chemical pollution. Synthetic inks, widely used in printing and packaging, are predominantly petroleum-based, contributing to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions that align with SDG 9 principles: sustainable production, inclusive industrialisation, and resilient infrastructure.
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Living Ink: Innovation through science and sustainability
Living Ink exemplifies the transformative potential of innovation in sustainability. Founded by Scott Fulbright and Stevan Albers, the company leverages algae to create eco-friendly pigments. These carbon-negative pigments, marketed under the flagship ALGAE INKâ„¢ brand, are a sustainable alternative to traditional inks.
The environmental edge
The algae-based pigments are biodegradable and carbon-neutral, addressing pressing concerns of environmental protection. Unlike synthetic inks that rely on fossil fuels, Living Ink’s products utilise renewable biomass waste, reducing carbon emissions and supporting the circular economy.
Scalable technology for diverse industries
Living Ink’s innovations extend beyond environmental benefits. Their algae pigments are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing printing systems, eliminating the need for specialised equipment. This scalability makes their solutions accessible across various industries, including publishing, fashion, and branding, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation.
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By championing cleaner production methods, Living Ink contributes to the development of resilient industrial infrastructures that can withstand environmental challenges. These advancements are critical in reducing the carbon footprint of traditional manufacturing processes and driving global efforts toward climate action.
Statistics and future outlook
The impact of sustainable innovations like Living Ink is measurable and promising:
The global printing industry, valued at approximately 278 USD billion, has the potential to significantly reduce emissions by transitioning to eco-friendly inks.
Algae-based products are forecasted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2023 to 2030, reflecting increasing demand for sustainable alternatives.
Adopting carbon-neutral pigments can save an estimated 200,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to removing 43,000 cars from the road.
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The progress of Living Ink underscores the importance of global collaboration in achieving SDG 9. Initiatives like theirs highlight how partnerships between innovators, industries, and governments can lead to transformative change. The Global Society plays a vital role by fostering cross-border cooperation, funding research, and ensuring equitable access to sustainable technologies.
Living Ink’s journey from a university research project to a leader in sustainable pigments illustrates the potential of combining science, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Their algae-based solutions not only address industrial challenges but also align with broader goals of social justice, economic equality, and climate action.
Continued support for such innovations, driven by global collaboration, is essential for achieving the ambitious targets set by the global goals. By rethinking industry and prioritising sustainability, a future of resilient infrastructures and sustainable growth is within reach.
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Discover the latest advancements in sustainable development and support innovative solutions like Living Ink. Learn about related global efforts at UN SDG 9 initiatives and Living Ink’s algae-based pigments.
Youtube credits: @SuperiorInkPrinting