‘Going Green’ stamps for Netherlands Post
Lighting is one of the key themes featured to reduce energy and become greener.
Netherlands postage stamps highlight sustainability with their ‘Going Green’ series. The stamps illustrate and describe some of the fine green initiatives being undertaken by the Netherlands. PostNL is thus underlining the importance of green initiatives for a liveable future. The stamps show positive mottos, tips and tricks to encourage us in ‘going green’ in our everyday lives. They include the following themes: new way of working, reducing energy consumption, using alternative energy sources, insulating homes, LED and energy-saving lighting, and organic food production.
The illustration on each stamp symbolises a particular aspect of environmental awareness. The illustrations are drawn by hand and combine images and words. Each one consists of a simple ‘iconic’ symbol, which on closer inspection is built up of typography: a phrase that gives a powerful context to the whole. For post destined to be delivered within Europe, the theme is ‘Europe gives green light’. Taking the iconic lightbulb symbol, the ‘filament’ is actually the phrase ‘Europe Gives Green Light’ (but of course in Dutch). In this way,the move to energy saving lighting is brought to our attention.
The ‘Going green’ stamps were designed by Gesina Roters, creative partner of the DAY agency, in Amsterdam. The designs were based on the fact that PostNL wanted the new stamps to demonstrate the progress our society has already made regarding environmental awareness and green initiatives. This was not intended to be pedantic or complicated, but at the same time high demands were set for the freshness and contextual power of the design. “Not the simplest of tasks on a surface area of 20.8 x 25.3mm”, says Gesina with a sense of understatement, “but a really nice one nonetheless”.
Sub-themes of the ‘Going green’ stamps
Ten stamps for the Netherlands
Nice and clean with less water and electricity.
The Netherlands is building on a sustainable future (going green).
Green post is good news.
Organic is good for people and animals.
Green energy has the wind behind it (sun, water, bio).
Insulation for a green climate.
New way of working: green profits for people and nature.
Travel-awareness gives the environment a break (climate-neutral).
Recycling gives new life.
Race ahead with electric transport (hybrid).
Five stamps for Europe
Europe gives green light.
Five stamps for outside Europe (World)
Think green for a green world.