The system allows the recycling and the reuse of degreasing and washing solvents used in flexo platemaking through a distillation process. It separates resins, polymers, pigments, paints and oils from the original solvent.

Mark Gration, group managing director of York-based York Reprographic, said: "The company has a real commitment to the environment and we continue to seek new efficiencies in the business.

"The new clean system recovers more than 98% of solvents and we believe it is one of the most environmentally efficient processing systems available."

York Reprographic has already seen some benefits since it installed the new solvent recovery unit, as well as cutting costs and improving its green footprint.

This is the latest environmental improvement initiative that has been completed as part of the company's ongoing continuous improvement plan.

York Repographics is part of the YRG Group, and was founded in 1974.

It has four sites in York and Manchester, as well as a number of partnerships with other companies.

The group's services include reprographics, retouching, colour management, proofing, digital flexo plates and print consultancy.