How safe is safe? Wiser wall decoration choices

Wall decoration as it stands

When it comes to sustainability, the wall decoration printing industry has not always had the best reputation. Conventionally printed wallpapers, for instance, are created using copious amounts of energy and contain elements that are detrimental to human, animal and environmental health. Another crucial aspect? Most discarded wall decoration is harder to recycle, ending up in landfills and incinerators. 

As well as being one of Xeikon’s main business goals, sustainable choices are increasingly becoming a dominant part of most of your customers’ lifestyles. A groundbreaking 82% of consumers are now interested in products that contain a smaller carbon footprint, and it is time to take matters into greener hands.

Why switch from conventional PVC wallpapers?

PVC wallpaper is the cheaper, go-to option for most. However, these may contain chemicals considered a health hazard. Current EU legislation, in fact, limits the use of many of these substances in children’s toys, medical devices, car interiors and food contact material. Then, liquids from PVC evaporate only partially during production of the wallcovering… meaning some stay within the wallpaper.

Since the liquid components are not chemically bound to the polymer they have a high tendency to migrate… that too, in a home environment. Migration can create unpleasant odors and a potentially harmful living environment. In addition, the PVC polymer itself has raised many objections due to the potential harm it poses for the natural environment, such as:

• A practically endless life cycle

• Poor recyclability

• Energy recovery

• Potential formation of dioxins and migration

• Vast resources needed in the entire production process