Abstract Printing technology plays an important role in human civilization and social progress. Since modern times, printing technology has undergone deep-seated, comprehensive and systematic technological innovations with the promotion of science and technology. However, under the pressure of global environmental pollution, the traditional printing industry is facing new environmental pressures and challenges. Based on the innovation of nano-materials, scientists from Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences propose to develop nano-green printing technology to fundamentally solve the pollution of printing industry, and promote the green development of more industries. This paper briefly introduces recent achievements of Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences on nano-green printing technology, as well as the potential applications of nano-green printing.