SUSTAINABILITY

We want future generations to enjoy records as much as we do. And that means rethinking how they're made today.

At RPM Records, we took a hard look at the environmental impact of vinyl pressing. The numbers weren’t great. So we changed course, made big investments, and committed to doing things differently; Not just for show, but for real impact.

No greenwashing. No empty buzzwords. Just honesty, better tech, and a bit of Canadian help.

Mathias, chief operating officer, standing in front of Maple, RPM Records' record pressing machine.

MEET MAPLE

MODERN PRODUCTION

MEET MAPLE

We adopted her from Canada. She’s a WarmTone™ Record Press by Viryl Technologies, and she’s nothing like the old-school presses. We call her Maple. She’s the heart of our operation.

Image of The WarmTone Record Press, Maple.

WHY MAPLE MATTERS

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Full Safety Guarding

The WarmTone™ is CSA- and CE-approved, and complies with OSHA-standards. This means that none of our operators are put to risk using the machine.

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Faster Pressing Cycles

Capable of 25 second cycle times, the WarmTone can press around two records per minute. This increased production cycle results in a 35% energy reduction.

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A.D.A.P.T Technology

The A.D.A.P.T software keeps us updated if something is wrong with the machine or production. This helps us maintain an excellent product quality, resulting in less PVC waste.

“The WarmTone Record Press is everything that its vintage counterpart is not: safe, fast, fully-automated, reliable…” - WIRED Magazine.

OUR COLLABERATION WITH GRETA THUNBERG

THE BIG CHALLENGE

In 2021, we collaborated with Greta Thunberg on her “I am Greta” record, which completely changed our production methods. The challenge was simple: Achieve the most environmentally friendly product possible. No pressure, right?

To do that, we had to reconsider every step of our production process.

WHAT WE DID:

  1. Used 100% recycled PVC from leftover records and scrapings
  2. Printed covers on recycled, wood-free card stock with plant-based inks
  3. Sealed them with stickers made from recycled material
  4. Skipped all shrink-wrap or plastic outer sleeves
  5. Used 100% recycled paper inner sleeves

THE RESULTS

This was an eye-opening experience that inspired us to keep pushing the boundaries for what we can do as a small pressing plant, wanting to make a big impact. Because of that we ended up:

  • Partnering with EVO-vinyl to implement their plant-based PVC alternative.
  • Selling bio-vinyl options which has a reduced carbon footprint by 90%
  • Offering fully biodegradable covers
Green record stacked in front green record covers

OUR APPROACH

MISSION

WHAT WE'RE DOING NOW

We’re not waiting for perfect solutions. Here’s how we’re reducing our footprint today:

  • Bio-vinyl: Up to 90% lower CO₂ emissions
  • Eco-packaging: Biodegradable sleeves and plant-based inks
  • Efficient production: WarmTone™ press reduces energy and waste
  • Certified partners only: Every supplier we work with is ESC-approved

STREAMING'S CARBON FOOTPRINT

Streaming an album 27 times has roughly the same carbon footprint as producing one vinyl copy. So if you're going to press records — do it right, and make it last.

VISION

WHERE WE'RE HEADED

We’re proud to be one of a handful of pressing plants collaborating with Evolution Music on the next frontier of sustainable vinyl.

They’re developing EVO-Vinyl™, a material made from sugar beets and starches. A PVC-free alternative that sounds as good as it presses.

It’s not on the market yet, but we’re deep in the testing phase and excited to offer it the moment it’s ready.

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Ready to press your record?

You bring the music. We got the rest.

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