Kousoku Offset Achieves Milestone of 100,000 Printed Banana Paper Business Cards

Kousoku Offset Reaches 100,000 Business Cards on Banana Paper

Kousoku Offset, a pioneering printing company located in Osaka, Japan, has successfully printed over 100,000 business cards using One Planet Paper®, Japan's only fair trade certified paper made from banana stem fibers. The impressive milestone reflects the company's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, making it a prominent player in environmentally friendly printing practices.

The Essence of One Planet Paper®

One Planet Paper® is crafted from banana stem fibers that would otherwise be disposed of, mixed with FSC® certified pulp. This innovative approach not only prevents waste but also supports fair trade practices. The banana stem fibers are sourced from Enfue village in Zambia, where the local factory adjusts its operations to meet fair trade standards. As a result, Japanese companies using this paper can proudly say they contribute to specific social and environmental initiatives.

As an impact of this initiative, Kousoku Offset's printing efforts have directly translated into significant contributions to the wages of factory staff in Zambia. By achieving this landmark number in business cards printed by November 2024, the company has provided the equivalent of 164 days' wages for one employee at the Zambian factory, demonstrating the tangible benefits of their sustainable material choices.

Positive Changes in Zambia

In addition to wage contributions, the factory in Enfue village is experiencing transformative changes. Plans for the 2024 fiscal year include installing solar panels, which will enhance sustainability efforts and provide renewable energy for production. This holistic approach showcases how using a single sheet of paper can have far-reaching impacts on the environment, employment, and social equity.

The Growing Demand for Sustainable Materials

The recent growth in demand for printed materials made from banana paper stems from a heightened interest in sustainable practices among corporations. More businesses are reaching out to Kousoku Offset, expressing a desire for continued support and contribution, especially in products like business cards that are frequently reused. As a result, the company has been expanding its portfolio of offerings, which now includes company brochures and promotional merchandise.

Customers considering the transition to One Planet Paper® can utilize various resources from Kousoku Offset, such as the complete Banana Paper Guidebook and sample paper requests, which are invaluable tools for making informed decisions about sustainable materials.

About Kousoku Offset

Founded in 1986 with backing from Mainichi Newspaper Company, Kousoku Offset has built a strong reputation as a leader in the printing industry in Japan. The company achieved FSC®-COC certification in 2008 and adapted to ISO 14001 standards in 2015, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability. In 2020, it began offering products made from banana paper, taking a significant step towards eco-friendly printing solutions. Highlighting its innovation, Kousoku Offset launched the