• Use the lowest VOC press wash that works for you.  Work with your vendor to find one with low VOC content by weight and one that has a lower vapor pressure and higher flash point.
  
• Use press washes that don’t contain chemicals that are reclassified hazardous waste when disposed.
  
• Utilize protocols that conserve press wash, such as dedicating a press to just one color on specific days.  Since colors are not changed between press runs, the number of press cleanings is reduced.  This saves time, press wash used and ink.
  
• Consider an automatic cleaning system.  By removing excess ink and preventing ink build-up, your can reduce cleanup solvent consumption.
  
• Do not saturate show towels with too much press wash.  Use the minimum amount needed to do the job.  Excessive use increases the amount of wash that needs to be bought and results in increased air pollution
  

Aerosol Cans -

• Do not buy aerosols containing compounds that are highly flammable, persistent or toxic.  Work with your vendor to find alternatives.
  
• Dispose of non-empty cans containing hazardous substances as hazardous wastes.  Never throw non-empty cans into the garbage.
  
• Return defective cans to your supplier.
  
• Determine if you actually need these products.
  
• Switch to non-aerosol products if possible, such as manual pump cans or bottles, especially if they can be refilled.

Shop Towels -

• Use cloth towels which can be cleaned and reused.
  
• When possible, use less hazardous cleaning solvents (ones without chlorinated compounds.)
  
• All used towels should be stored in a closed container.

Fountain Solutions -

• Consider changing to an alcohol-free fountain solution.  Look for alcohol substitutes that are not hazardous waste when disposed.  Ask your vendor for suggestions.
  
• Consider using a recirculating chiller unit that keeps fountain solution clean and reduces evaporation.  If you continue to use alcohol in your fountain solution, try to reduce the amount that you use.

Emulsion and Ink Remover -

• Ask your vendor about low VOC ink and emulsion removers.  Use the lowest VOC products that will work for you.
  
• Remove extra ink from screens with a scraper or spatula before using ink remover.  Return excess in to containers.
  
• Use a separate solvent cleaning station.  Collect any leftover solvent for reuse, recycling or disposal.
  
• Use a solvent pump can instead of pouring solvent from a jug.  This will minimize your use of solvent and emissions to the air.

Local Efforts: Ross Printing Company installed a new, solvent-free flexographic plate setter, resulting in a 100% reduction in VOC emissions.