In today’s fast-paced retail world, gift cards have become a go-to option for consumers seeking convenience and flexibility. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday or a simple thank-you, gift cards offer the ultimate in ease—allowing the recipient to choose what they want, when they want it. However, as much as gift cards have become an essential part of the retail landscape, the way they’re made and used raises important questions about sustainability.
The Growing Demand for Sustainable Gifting Solutions
According to the International Card Manufacturers Association (ICMA), nearly 30 billion cards are produced globally each year. The sheer volume of cards raises an important issue: how sustainable are they?
Research shows that more than 70% of gift cards are used and discarded within just six months. While many of these cards are recyclable, traditional production methods rely on materials and processes that can be hard to manage in the long term. As consumer expectations shift, there’s a growing demand for solutions that are both functional and environmentally conscious.
Monadnock Paper Mills Steps In
As the oldest continuously operating paper mill in the United States, ICMA member Monadnock Paper Mills is no stranger to innovation. For more than 200 years, the company has been a leader in developing sustainable paper technologies and alternative fibers. Now, Monadnock is addressing the environmental challenges posed by traditional gift card production with a cutting-edge solution: the Envi PC 100 Card.
Introducing the Envi PC 100 Card: A New Era in Gift Card Sustainability
The Envi PC 100 Card represents a bold departure from conventional gift cards. Made entirely from 100% post-consumer waste (PCW) recycled content, this innovative card provides a fully sustainable alternative to traditional materials, without sacrificing the durability and functionality that consumers and retailers expect.
Monadnock’s Envi PC 100 Card can be produced in various calipers, including options optimized for HP Indigo presses, and offers all the features of a standard gift card—magnetic stripes, barcodes, signature panels, and scratch-off sections. What’s more, it can be fully customized with embossing, foil stamping, and lamination, ensuring that brands can retain their unique identity while also embracing eco-friendly practices.
“The response to the Envi PC 100 Card has been overwhelmingly positive,” says Lisa Taylor, ICMA member and vice president of sales and marketing at Monadnock. “Our customers love that they can offer a high-quality, customizable gift card without compromising their commitment to sustainability. Since launching the product, we’ve increased the percentage of post-consumer waste content from 0% to 100%, and we’ve already produced over 10 billion of these cards.”
Sustainability at the Core
The Envi PC 100 Card is made with FSC-certified recycled fiber, offering an added layer of reassurance for retailers and consumers alike. As environmental concerns continue to rise, studies show that 77% of consumers are willing to stop purchasing from brands that do not adhere to environmentally responsible practices. By adopting the Envi PC 100 Card, retailers are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also aligning themselves with a growing consumer base that values sustainability.
More than just an eco-friendly alternative, the Envi PC 100 Card represents a strategic opportunity for retailers. Offering a sustainable gift card option enhances customer loyalty and strengthens brand reputation. As sustainability continues to be a key consideration for today’s consumers, brands that prioritize environmental responsibility can stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
Driving the Future of Retail Innovation
The gift card industry is at a pivotal moment. Consumers are demanding more sustainable solutions, and retailers are seeking ways to meet those expectations while staying competitive. With the Envi PC 100 Card, Monadnock is showing that it is possible to create a gift card that delivers on both sustainability and functionality.
By rethinking the materials and production methods behind gift cards, Monadnock is leading the way toward a more eco-conscious retail landscape. The Envi PC 100 Card demonstrates that it’s possible to deliver a product that consumers love, without compromising on environmental values.
Conclusion: The Path Forward for Sustainable Gifting
The future of retail is shifting toward sustainability, and gift cards are no exception. As consumer demand for environmentally responsible options grows, brands that embrace sustainable practices will have a distinct competitive edge. Monadnock Paper Mills’ Envi PC 100 Card offers a smart, innovative solution that supports the growing trend of eco-conscious commerce.
For retailers looking to reduce their environmental impact and meet the needs of modern consumers, the Envi PC 100 Card is not just a product; it’s part of a larger movement towards a cleaner, greener future in gifting. By making the switch to sustainable gift cards, businesses can not only contribute to a healthier planet but also build deeper, more meaningful connections with their customers.
In a world that increasingly values sustainability, the Envi PC 100 Card is proof that innovation and eco-friendly practices can go hand-in-hand, paving the way for a more sustainable future in retail.
More Insights on Card Trends
For more than 30 years, ICMA has represented the interests of the card manufacturing industry—which includes manufacturers, personalizers, issuers and suppliers—as its leading global association.
Throughout the year, ICMA members have the opportunity to share insights and knowledge by giving presentations during ICMA webcasts and events. The association’s main event is its annual Card Manufacturing & Personalization EXPO. The 2025 EXPO will take place from May 12-15 in Orlando, Florida.
ICMA offers regular educational opportunities, including ACE-Manufacturing, ACE-Personalization and ACE-Advanced Technologies training and exams at the ICMA EXPO. ICMA also offers ACE-Commercial training, which provides sales, marketing, customer service and other key personnel at ICMA member companies with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of card manufacturing.
Learn more about the benefits of ICMA membership.