Grass+Roots+Press



On Friday, May 28, we had the pleasure of getting a tour of Grass Roots Press. Mr. Gary Cappy, who(along with his wife) is in charge of the press, showed us around and answered any questions we had. The press is a small place, but makes good business and is respectable. It's a little more old-fashioned: they just use ink and paper, rather than working with digital, and start with larger paper and cut it down to what they need, rather than starting with custom-sized paper. This gives the press a nicer, more local feel. But on to the 'green' advantages: They use recycled paper(all-recycled whenever possible, but not if the buyer asks otherwise), and the ink they use is made with vegetable oil instead of petroleum oil. And, unlike some other presses that use gasoline or alcohol-based cleaners on their machinery, Grass Roots uses a cleaner made from recycled agricultural waste (isn't that nifty?). However, despite their desire to do their part for the environment, and to help others do the same, Gary insists on not calling GRP 'green'. Why? Because, according to Mr. Cappy: being 'green' isn't something you should say lightly, especially with all the 'greenwashing' these days. In his words: "I think that 'being green' is not something that you, or a business, are, but a goal you're continually trying for." He does sometimes call his press 'environmentally friendly,' but never that they are a 'green' business. However, know that this isn't because they don't care about the environment: Grass Roots Press is the place in the Triangle for local, eco-friendly printing that you can trust.friendly,' but never that they are a 'green' business. However, know that this isn't because they don't care about the environment: Grass Roots Press is the place in the Triangle for local, eco-friendly printing that you can trust. And, contrary to what they might say(due to modesty), GRP is very helpful towards the environment: Gary Cappy has taken the Green Business Pledge, donates money to NativeEnergy and Trees for the Future, and has his name on the Wall of Tolerance, to name a few things. Mr. and Mrs. Cappy are funny, nice people who are sincerely concerned about the environment, and go the extra mile to do their part.

On the web
 * Location:** 401 1/2 W. Peace St., Raleigh
 * Phone:** (919) 828-2364