The implications of legislation on the activities of the ink industry are far reaching and complex. This paper has described the major influences on formulation (food safety and VOC control), manufacture (solid waste and health and safety) and supply (packaging). There is little doubt that further legislation will be implemented, and that existing legislation will become more stringent. Directly or indirectly, this will have increasing cost implications for the industry and its customers, and awareness and proper management at all levels is required to maintain control with legislative compliance.