Illuminating the path: How Lantern Press champions eco-conscious consumerism – article

Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed a significant paradigm shift in consumer behavior. Today's consumers are not just looking for high-quality products; they're seeking brands with values that align with their own. Amid rising concerns about climate change, environmental degradation and the harmful effects of unchecked consumerism, eco-conscious buying has surged, turning into a global movement.

Brands across various sectors are recognizing the influence of the 'conscious consumer.' These individuals prioritize the environmental and social implications of their purchases, whether it's in the domain of food, clothing or children's toys. Sustainability has firmly established itself as a key factor in these consumers' buying choices, reflecting a deep concern for the planet and surrounding communities. NIQ's 2021 sales data highlighted this trend, revealing a notable surge in products labeled with eco-friendly attributes compared to 2019. Specifically, sales for products labeled "Plastic Free" shot up by 96.4%, while those boasting "Eco-Friendly Packaging" saw a 1.3% increase.

Far from merely adapting to the trend, Lantern Press has positioned itself at the forefront, actively contributing to the narrative around sustainable business. Sustainability isn't just an afterthought for the company—it's intricately woven into the very fabric of their operations and products. Aaron Morris, CEO at Lantern Press, puts it succinctly, "The consumer is the ultimate decision maker in the market. They're going to gravitate towards a product that they feel is more responsible and aligns with their values."

Lantern Press is a dynamic art company with a mission to resonate with audiences through distinct artwork across a multitude of print mediums. Their offerings aren't just products; they are connections to cherished memories and experiences. Every product includes original creations by in-house artists, contemporary photography, distinctive illustrations of National Parks and major cities and a range of on-trend home and office décor that is designed to last and be loved for years. Their unwavering commitment to quality is evident in every piece.

Lantern Press: A Beacon of Sustainable Innovation

By choosing to expand their collection in contemporary and innovative ways, Lantern Press has managed to blend traditional art with modern aesthetics, offering a wide range of products that resonate with diverse audiences. But their commitment extends beyond their artwork; it's about creating a sustainable legacy that ensures a better and greener tomorrow and aligns with the 45% of consumers who rank responsible sourcing as a pivotal sustainability claim. As Morris emphasizes, "Our success has been in creating products that resonate with the consumer base. When a product aligns with their values and needs, everything else falls into place."

An example of the company’s craftmanship and sustainability focus is seen in the recently released range of 24 meticulously crafted designs in their eco-conscious Firelight Mini Puzzles. Each piece speaks of precision and care, perfectly mirroring the brand's ethos. Measuring 9" x 9”, these puzzles are not only a visual delight but also echo a deeper commitment to the environment. Crafted using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified materials, they reflect the brand's pledge to eco-conscious sourcing and reducing carbon footprints.

"Engaging with these puzzles isn't just about recreation; it's a form of mental hygiene. In a world bustling with noise, it provides a meditative retreat, helping the mind recalibrate and focus," said Morris. This notion of "mental hygiene" aligns perfectly with the brand's approach — promoting products that are not just sustainable for the planet but also nurture the human mind.

The company is particularly strong in how they respond to market feedback. As Morris shares, "We listen to our retailers. They will come to us and mention that they get questions frequently in their store." Such insights catalyze Lantern Press's innovative approaches to reducing waste, showcasing that sustainability is as much about listening and adapting as it is about innovating.

This fall heralds the launch of a new eco-friendly apparel style. The "Eco Tee" combines tactile softness with environmental consideration, crafted from REPREVE® which is 50% recycled polyester (equivalent to 6 recycled water bottles per shirt), 25% organic cotton and 25% modal from renewable beech trees. The "Eco Hoodie" is a testament to upcycling, made entirely from reclaimed fabric scraps. This approach results in significant water savings, akin to forgoing showers for six weeks, and does not include any additional dying processes to further reduce water consumption. This hoodie is certified carbon-neutral through Carbonfree™ offsets and comes in four unique shades. Lantern Press’s innovative printing process uses 95% less water, 60% less energy and generates substantially less chemical waste than traditional methods. Plus, it allows for low minimums and quick turn-around times which reduce wasteful overruns.

The significance of these sustainable initiatives isn't lost on Morris, who commented, "Let's be ahead of the curve here. We see what's happening with plastic in the ocean. We should get rid of plastics in our manufacturing processes now so that we're ahead of it."

Strengthening the Commitment through Collaborations

In the path of sustainability, it's often the collaborations that paint a more comprehensive story than individual efforts. The alignment of Lantern Press with the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) is more than just a partnership; it reflects the broader narrative of businesses pivoting towards globally recognized sustainable practices. The FSC, known for its rigorous standards in forest management, finds resonance with Lantern Press's overarching ethos.

While each product from Lantern Press, from the versatile Aprons and Go Bags to the elegant Totes, gives a nod to sustainability, it's crucial to note the underlying narrative. As Morris points out, this transition isn't merely industry-driven but rather a reflection of changing consumer consciousness. "It's not just about following a trend," says Morris, "but rather understanding the evolving consumer ethos."

For Lantern Press, sustainability isn't just an isolated department or a marketing buzzword. It permeates through their relationships with local reuse companies. Reuse emphasizes not just recycling but the act of extending the life of products and materials, minimizing waste and reducing the need for new raw materials. It's a proactive approach, focusing on preventing waste before it's created, even further reducing environmental impact.

By collaborating with companies that prioritize reuse and by contributing 1% of sales from numerous collections to National Parks through the 1% for the Planet initiative, Lantern Press reaffirms its dedication to comprehensive sustainability. Sustainability is not merely about being 'green' in-house, but fostering an expansive network that thrives on shared sustainable principles. This reflects a broader understanding of sustainability—one that champions both internal practices and external collaborations, ultimately promoting a more circular economy.

"Our vision extends beyond mere products. It's a pledge to forge a world where commerce and sustainability coexist effortlessly."