The Enderby-based printer, part of The Print People Group, recycled 284 tonnes of paper in 2007 and now ensures that 80% of the company's waste is recycled.

The 66-staff company has been working towards the accreditation over the past 12 months and has undertaken a variety of initiatives including the on-site composting of biodegradable waste.

The £4m-plus firm also operates a power perfector and power factor correction which helps cut the amount of electricity consumed at the Leicester site.

The Heidelberg printing house has also saved £4,000 in landfill waste disposal costs and invested in bird housing and feeding areas around the premises in a bid to enhance the bio-diversity of the company.

C&R Printing Services management systems officer Elizabeth Ashford told printweek.com it was important for the printer to achieve the environmental standard.

She said: "It helps us to develop as a company and to assure both new and existing customers of our green approach."