The conference looked at the measurement and reduction of the carbon footprint throughout the supply chain and Polestar took the opportunity to launch its web-based carbon footprint calculator for customers.

Polestar chief executive Barry Hibbert said: "We are aware that many of the larger organisations in the industry have of course already started looking at the issue of their carbon footprint, in line with forthcoming Government legislation.

"However, what we are providing through our system is the means of gaining the complete picture – from the paper mill to the retailer."

He added: "As we have done with our PrintDynamics training software, this system will be available to the wider industry and we hope that it helps towards the industry agreeing a standard.

"Polestar has the resources and the skills that put us in the privileged position of being able to take a proactive stance on this, and that is what we intend to do."

Polestar is working with the Carbon Trust's Carbon Management programme, which provides options to help UK businesses cut carbon emissions, energy and costs, along with SCA Paper.