Blue Angel (Blauer Engel) is one of the world’s oldest and most respected eco-labels, awarded to products and services that meet high standards for environmental, health, and performance safety. In the context of digital printing, Blue Angel certification signals that a substrate or print product is especially environmentally friendly and safe for indoor use.
Relevance to Digital Print:
Blue Angel certification is especially important for materials used in interior graphics, educational environments, healthcare facilities, and child-sensitive spaces. It ensures that products:
Emit very low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Are free from hazardous additives like PVC, phthalates, and heavy metals
Meet strict recyclability and disposal standards
Originate from sustainably sourced raw materials, where applicable
Common Certified Products in Digital Print:
PVC-free wallcoverings and films
Recycled or FSC-certified papers
Low-emission inkjet media
Boards and panels made from sustainable wood or fiber
Office and home décor prints
Printer & Ink Compatibility:
Materials with Blue Angel certification are typically compatible with:
UV-curable inks (low-emission variants)
Latex inks (which meet indoor air quality standards)
Water-based inks
Use Cases:
Hospitals, schools, and daycares
Retail environments with green procurement standards
Office wall graphics and room dividers
Eco-certified exhibition booths and displays
Why It Matters:
Blue Angel supports sustainable design and responsible production in large format print workflows. Using Blue Angel-certified substrates can help printers and end users:
Comply with environmental procurement guidelines
Enhance brand transparency and green marketing efforts
Reduce health risks in indoor installations