The Environmental Impact: Are Video Brochures Eco-Friendly?

As sustainability becomes a core value for businesses worldwide, especially in North America and Europe, marketing professionals face a pressing question: Can high-impact tools like video brochures align with environmental goals?

In this blog, we’ll explore the eco-friendliness of video brochures¹, how they compare to other marketing tools, and how companies can make informed, responsible decisions while still achieving strong branding results.

Whether your company is ESG-focused, B Corp-certified, or simply striving to reduce its footprint, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Video Brochures Made Of?

A standard video brochure combines the following components:

• Printed outer layer: Typically cardboard or coated paper with CMYK or Pantone printing
• Embedded LCD screen: Ranges from 2.4” to 10”, powered by a lithium battery
• Electronic components: Includes memory chip, speaker, and micro USB port
• Packaging: Often delivered in protective cartons with foam inserts or sleeves

At first glance, this might not scream “sustainable.” But let’s break it down further.

Sustainable Marketing Materials: A Closer Look

1. Material Sourcing and Print Options

At CheerTrend, for instance, we offer options for FSC-certified paper² and soy-based inks, both of which reduce environmental impact significantly. Clients can request recyclable cardboard covers or biodegradable coatings instead of traditional glossy finishes.

♻️ Choosing sustainable substrates can reduce the carbon footprint of your video brochure by up to 30%.

2. Battery and Electronics Management

Video brochures use rechargeable lithium batteries, which—like any electronic product—should be disposed of responsibly. While these components aren’t biodegradable, they are recyclable through standard e-waste programs.

To minimize waste:

• Offer return or recycling programs for used brochures
• Partner with local e-waste centers
• Clearly label recycling instructions in the packaging

3. Durability = Less Waste

One overlooked aspect of sustainability is longevity. A single video brochure can be reused dozens of times across meetings, demos, and trade shows. Unlike single-use flyers or mailers, which often end up in the trash within minutes, video brochures tend to stay in circulation for months.

📊 Studies show that materials with high retention rates can have a lower environmental impact over time—even if their initial footprint is higher.

Eco-Friendly Marketing Tools: How Video Brochures Compare

Conclusion: If used strategically, video brochures can be a sustainable marketing material, especially when paired with longer usage cycles, recyclable packaging³, and proper disposal programs.

Real-World Applications: Green Messaging in Action

Many companies have successfully used video brochures as eco-conscious tools to communicate green messages:

• Renewable energy firms showcase solar panel technology with product demo videos
• Sustainable fashion brands send influencer kits in biodegradable boxes with video messages
• Green tech companies include their ESG video reports in reusable brochures for investors

When your message is about innovation and sustainability, the medium must reflect those values too.

How to Make Your Video Brochures More Eco-Friendly

Here are steps you can take right now:

1. Choose FSC-certified paper² and low-impact print methods (like soy-based ink)
2. Request minimal packaging or recyclable inserts
3. Use smaller screen sizes (2.4" or 4.3") to reduce battery/material usage
4. Incorporate multi-use content so brochures are used longer
5. Offer take-back programs for used units

At CheerTrend, we’re happy to support your sustainable goals by helping you design brochures with the environment in mind.

Conclusion

While video brochures aren’t inherently "green," they can absolutely be part of an eco-friendly marketing strategy when designed and used thoughtfully. With responsible material sourcing, longer lifespans, and smart recycling options, they offer a compelling balance between innovation and sustainability.

For companies in Europe and North America where eco-conscious branding matters, video brochures can deliver high engagement without compromising environmental values.

📩 Want to create sustainable video brochures? Contact us at Anna@cheertrend.com or explore eco-friendly options at www.cheertrend.com.