Graphic films are not truly sustainable. Yet.
From farm to film

3M™ Envision™ Print Film PL50mC. Made from 40% bio-based material derived from non-food source corn.
Partnering for a circular economy

Our goal is to reduce, reuse and recycle in everything we do. Who’s with us?. Read the article (PDF, 225 KB).
Problem solvers

Producing films without solvents is possible. How close are we? Read the article (PDF, 608 KB).

Join us on our journey toward sustainability in graphics and signage

Here’s the fact: Graphic films bring brands to life in so many ways. But they are not yet truly sustainable. At 3M, we’re working to change that. You can already see our commitment to sustainability in our growing portfolio of graphics solutions. You’ll start to experience it through our programs and partnerships. You’ll hear about it as we communicate our efforts to reduce our environmental impact in manufacturing.

We believe in collaborative commitments and continuous improvement. As you strive to achieve your sustainability goals, 3M is constantly working to develop and share information that helps brands make informed decisions and advance our industry forward.

The three most critical aspects to advance our graphics industry

Continuous material and product innovation to help meet your sustainability goals
Creating new programs & partnerships to reduce waste, support recyclability and more
Changing manufacturing processes to minimise environmental impact

Our commitment to sustainability goes back decades and we’re just getting started

1975: 3M launches its Pollution Prevention Program (English, US). This alone has prevented nearly 3 million tons of pollution.
2005: 3M launches first 3M™ Sun Control Window Film Prestige Series window films, which rejects up to 97% of infrared light providing energy savings and enhanced comfort.
2014: 3M launches 3M™ Envision™ Flexible Substrate FS-1 for signs that use less energy and require less maintenance.

3M sustainability timeline from 1975 to 2030 with key milestones in pollution prevention and product innovation.

2019: Announced Sustainability Value Commitment (English, US) for all new products.
2023: 3M earns +Vantage Vinyl™ Verified Silver Certification from the Vinyl Sustainability Council.
2024: 3M introduces DI-NOC™ Architectural Finishes E-Series RC Recycled Content Film, featuring a base film layer composed of 80% post-consumer recycled polyester, and colored layer including 20% scallop shell powder.
By 2030: Reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 52.6% (base year 2019) & Double the number of PVC alternative film products.

Download the sustainability product selector (PDF, 701 KB)

You have real sustainability goals. Ours is to help you meet them. Here you’ll find 3M solutions to help you create breathtaking graphics and signage that is both on brand and supports your efforts toward true sustainability. They’re matched according to important qualifiers such as LEED credits, GREEN certification and many more. Start now.

Continuous material and product innovation

With more than a century of expertise in material science, we are well-positioned to help advance the graphics industry through mindful materials for new product innovation. We believe it’s possible to achieve bold visuals, maintain the quality of your graphic application and support your sustainability goals. We also believe the possibilities are endless. We strive to push the boundaries of branding. And bring you solutions that make your customers and your CEO or Chief Sustainability Officer smile.

From farm to Film: Learn more about 3M™ Envision™ PL50mC (PDF, 264 KB)

Pioneering new programs and partnerships

Collaboration is foundational to our global company – and to the advancement of the graphic industry. No one can do it on their own. First, we need brands who push and advocate for new, more sustainable solutions. We encourage new partnerships that support products for the circular economy. Let’s work together to transform global supply chains into a collection of powerhouse partnerships to advance local, regional and worldwide sustainability goals.

Learn more about our leadership in graphics in circularity (PDF, 225 KB)

Leading manufacturing changes to minimise environmental impact

As a global manufacturer, we know in order to champion sustainability, our production methods are just as important as the final product we send out the door. We are committed to minimizing the graphics industry’s overall impact in manufacturing, today and tomorrow. From water usage to waste, carbon footprint, emissions and more, there are so many ways the graphics industry can – and must – make a difference. You can rest assured that 3M is at the forefront.

Learn more about solvents in graphics (PDF, 225 KB)