As part of the archdiocese’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, the Catholic Pic has taken significant steps to reduce its environmental impact. In line with the archdiocese’s Care for Creation strategy—launched in October 2023 as a response to Laudato Si’ and Pope Francis’ call to “listen to the cry of the Earth”—the Catholic Pic continues to prioritise sustainability in its production and distribution.

Paper Waste Reduction – Reduce…

To prevent unnecessary waste, parishes encourage readers to access the digital version whenever possible. By sharing the magazine electronically, we help minimise printed paper waste.

…Reuse and Recycle!

The Catholic Pic is now 100% plastic-free and is fully recyclable.

Certified Sustainable Printing

In your latest issue of The Catholic Pic, you may have noticed two new logos on the first page—FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and Carbon Footprint. The FSC certification ensures that the paper used comes from responsibly managed forests, while the Carbon Footprint logo signifies efforts to measure and reduce the carbon emissions associated with production.

Partnering with Green Printers

The Catholic Pic works exclusively with environmentally responsible printers. These printing partners are chosen based on their commitment to reducing carbon emissions. A Carbon Capture charge is paid foreach tonne of paper purchased, with funds supporting woodland preservation and tree planting projects through The Woodland Trust. This initiative helps offsetCO2 emissions generated during the production and distribution of the magazine.

Efficient Distribution

Recognising that distribution plays a significant role in the environmental footprint of any printed material, the Catholic Pic has streamlined its approach to delivery. Instead of individual parish drop-offs, a single courier now delivers to central parishes within each deanery, or for schools, to their local parish.

This change reduces total mileage and, by extension, the carbon emissions associated with the "last-mile" delivery process, which typically accounts for up to 30% of the carbon dioxide emissions in logistics.

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon reminds us that “our vocation as stewards of God’s world has been with us since creation, where we were made in His image and likeness.” The Catholic Pic remains committed to upholding this vocation, ensuring its publication aligns with the archdiocese’s broader mission to build a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

‍