Meet Dan Mulcahy: Arrow Print
Dan is the driving force behind Arrow Management, with an extensive track record in print, design, publishing and packaging.
We were thrilled to be able to ask him all about the printing and packaging industry and the factors that drive him to push for more sustainable, eco-friendly norms.
KOKORO: How did you decide you wanted to focus on sustainable and eco-friendly packaging?
When you open your eyes, it is easy to see that single-use plastics are everywhere in our lives. While some of them are difficult to replace, others are being used because people are unaware of the alternatives. I see my role as making sustainable alternatives easier to source and more convenient to use.
KOKORO: What do you think the roadblocks are for all businesses sourcing sustainable packaging?
Awareness and convenience. While cost can be an Issue, economies of scale are very achievable.
KOKORO: You’ve managed to solve an environmental problem with an economical solution, do you think this is possible for most businesses? Why or why not?
The challenge for all of us Is 'reduce, reuse, recycle'. We are not being asked to eliminate all non-sustainable packaging on day one. The key step Is the first step - make a start. I think we can all do this.
KOKORO: What challenges did you face while establishing arrow management?
The challenge was the same one most business people have - how to survive long enough (and pay the mortgage and food bills) until we build a reputation and the work starts to come In on a regular basis. It takes planning, nerve and the help of people around you.
KOKORO: Where do you find your ‘Zen’, meaning how do you recharge and reset?
My favourite way to recharge to go off walking - preferably with my headset and a good audiobook. At weekends I take a rucksack with me and head off Into the hills. Simple but really relaxing.
KOKORO: What is the best lesson you’ve learned while focusing on protecting the planet?
That small steps count. For example, since I started using all-paper jiffy bags rather than the ones filled with plastic bubble wrap, people have started noticing. Most were unaware there was an alternative. Now they are using them too. Small steps!
KOKORO: What does a balanced future, where economy and ecology are both taken into consideration, look like to you?
People don't like extremism or being coerced, but they respond well to being 'nudged' In the right direction. For example, the plastic bag tax was just a few cents but It was enough to get us to change our habit. My hope for the future Is that we continue to be nudged to break old habits so we can look back In a few years time and be proud of what we have achieved. Becoming more sustainable Is a process. We all just need to make a start.
To learn more, visit https://arrowmanagement.ie/
