Biodegradable Tape is one of the conveniences of modern life. From duct tape to masking tape, the many different types make our lives easier.

But we must consider its potential environmental effects on our planet. Most types of tape (including adhesive, masking, and duct tape) are not biodegradable, meaning they can persist in the environment for millennia.

By the time they finally break down, they continue to linger on as microplastics, posing a health threat to both animals and humans.

Additionally, those made from plastic or synthetic adhesives are not recyclable. They may cause problems in the recycling process as they can become entangled in recycling machinery, leading to operational issues and reducing recycling efficiency.

Plastic-based tape will only add to the growing plastic pollution problem, ending up in landfills or the ocean.

Fortunately, biodegradable tapes are already available as eco-friendly alternatives. We can reduce our plastic waste footprint without sacrificing an essential modern convenience.

Biodegradable tape is made from plant-based material such as paper. This ensures natural decomposition over time without releasing environmental pollutants.

Additionally, unlike most conventional tape, it can also be recycled, ensuring that it can contribute to circular production and keep it away from our landfills and oceans.

Plant-based cellulose film is one of the more common materials used to make biodegradable tape. This cellulose film is made from cotton or wood pulp. It is then processed using special processes such as alkalization, yellowing, and forming.

Paper is another material for making tape. Some of the most popular types of tape, like Kraft and Washi, are paper-based.

Finally, there are starch-based tapes, which, as the name implies, are made from starch derived from crops such as corn, potato, and wheat.

Biodegradable Tape

Types of biodegradable tape

The following are various types of biodegradable tape available today:

Adhesive tape for sealing boxes and packages.
Packing tape for shipping and packaging.
Masking tape for use in painting and DIY projects.
Shipping tape to seal packages for transportation.
Water-activated paper tape is a form of paper tape with a water-based chemical adhesive that is reactivated by water. It is used to provide tamper- and weather-resistant protection.
Cello tape is for lightweight applications such as gift wrapping, picture framing, or medical use. It is clear and made from tree cellulose.
Washi tape for art projects. These tapes are printed with various designs, making them an excellent choice.
Flagging tape for marking boundaries, indicating danger zones, or organizing tasks in industries such as construction, forestry, and agriculture.
Duct tape for general use. Some versions are made from biodegradable materials such as cotton or rubber.
Challenges and limitations of biodegradable tape
Although biodegradable tape has many advantages over conventional tape, there are still challenges and limitations involved:

Biodegradable tape can be more expensive than conventional tape.
Cellophane and paper tape may not be water-resistant.
Colors may fade or discolor over time.
While durable, some biodegradable tapes may not be as strong or long-lasting as conventional plastic tapes.
Some cellophane tapes use a non-biodegradable adhesive; thus, they are not entirely eco-friendly.
Despite these limitations, consider using this green tape. While they are likely more expensive, they can be a cost-effective investment as they have better tamper and weather resistance than conventional plastic ones.

Many commonly used types of tape, such as water-activated tape, are composed of biodegradable, plant-derived materials and have long been established in industries worldwide.

With growing sustainability awareness, however, many brands and businesses have jumped towards using biodegradable tape to reduce wastage and improve their image.

Where to Order biodegradable tape?
Most online shopping websites like Amazon, Alibaba, and Shopee offer biodegradable tape of various widths, colors, patterns, and lengths.

Simply searching for “biodegradable tape” on online shopping sites can net you a substantial catalog from which to choose.

You can also visit most packaging or DIY supply stores.

How long does plastic tape take to biodegrade?
Plastic tapes can take centuries, even millennia, to fully decompose in the environment. And even then, they will persist as microplastics, building up in quantity down the food chain.

Is paper Biodegradable Tape Tape?
Yes, paper is not only biodegradable but also recyclable. Plus, many paper tapes are made from recycled materials, reducing their environmental impact.

Is cello Biodegradable Tape Tape?
Yes, cello tape is biodegradable and made from plant cellulose. However, the adhesive used may be synthetic and, thus, will not decompose naturally.

Is washi Biodegradable Tape?
Yes, most washi tape is made out of the bark of the mulberry, gampi, and mitsumata trees, while the adhesive is derived from natural rubbers.

Additionally, washi tape is reusable, giving it much greater longevity.

Is double-sided Biodegradable Tape?
Some types of double-sided tape contain polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic and toxic material that is non-biodegradable.

Other types of double-sided tape use natural rubber or biodegradable plastics that reduce their environmental impacts.

Is duct Biodegradable Tape?
While some brands use natural materials such as cotton, paper, and natural rubber, others use non-biodegradable materials such as plastic or synthetic rubber.

Is packing Biodegradable Tape?
Plastic-based packing tape is not biodegradable. However, there are paper- or cellulose-based packing tapes that are biodegradable.

The future of Biodegradable Tape
Although many industries and businesses worldwide are already using biodegradable tapes, their future usage will only grow as people become more aware of the environment and the sustainability of our resources.

Biodegradable tapes are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. They are an excellent cost-effective investment because of their durability, versatility, and ease of use, ensuring you do not sacrifice quality and convenience for sustainability.

Switching to green tape is a simple yet effective way to reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. So consider making the switch as soon as possible.