Is Tape Bad For The Environment?

Household items are the essential things that are common and used in the home. A major household item a lot of us are familiar with is tape. The tape has been in use for many years. A lot of us grew up knowing and using the tape for a lot of things around the home.

Although the tape has been in circulation for several years now, it is still very much relevant even now and is being used, not just in the home but in many other places, for different purposes.

There is a call to save the planet and the frontline of achieving this call is to stop the use of items that are not environmentally safe. Although this will mean that we will have to say goodbye to a lot of things we are used to, it is important that saving the earth comes first.

Because of the urgency to keep the environment safe, a lot of people have chosen to embrace the eco-friendly alternatives of some of these items.

However, a major issue that a lot of people have is knowing what is bad or good for the environment. In this article, we will help you know if the tape is good for the environment or not.

The Most Common Types Of Tapes

The common definition a lot of us are familiar with is that tape is a narrow strip of material, typically used to hold or fasten something. Tape comes with a carrier, this carrier is a material such as plastic, film, cloth, foam, or foil which serves as the base on which the adhesive is applied, along with a release lining.

The adhesive is generally rubber-based and is designed to stick to whatever it is applied to. The first tape was a surgical tape invented by Dr. Horace Day in 1945 and ever since, the production of tape has evolved to what it is today.

Below are a few of the types of tapes that are available and used for various purposes.

1. Adhesive Tapes

Adhesive tape is one of the most common types of tape available and can be used for various uses. Also known as scotch tape, the adhesive tape can be as wide as 3 inches and narrow as ¾ inches.

It comes in different varieties such as clear, glossy, matte, double-sided, transparent, etc. The adhesive tape can be used for a wide range of things and this is because it is strong and comes in various sizes.

2. Cloth Tape

The cloth tape is made out of fabrics and is usually used for medical purposes. The cloth tape is oftentimes used for bulky dressings, gauze, secure splints, and other types of bandages. They come in a size range of ¾ inches to 2 inches. They stick tightly, however they’re easily removed and are quite comfortable.  

3. Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape is a versatile type of tape and is used by a lot of people. It is designed to stick on both sides and comes in two types. The first type sticks so well on both sides, while the second type sticks more on one side than the other, this is to enhance easy removal. This type of tape is especially good for hanging posters, and prints on the wall.

4. Duct Tape

Duct tape is a strong, waterproof tape that is used for a lot of things. The duct tape comes in various sizes, sizes and is strong for whatever it will be used for. Some of the various uses of duct tape include repairs, furniture, making wallets, backpacks, cover books, and decoration!

5. Electrical Tape

Electrical tape, like its name, is mainly used by electricians to cover and insulate wiring and perform other electrical functions. It is usually made of plastic, vinyl, or even cloth from fiberglass. It comes in a variety of colors; however, each color has its uses and is quite lasting.

6. Masking Tape

Masking tape is also known as painter’s tape because it is mostly used by painters to mark out areas they do not want to paint. It is thin and sensitive to pressure. It comes in a variety of colors and is made with an easy-to-tear type of paper.  

Does Tape Biodegrade?

Before an item is regarded as biodegradable, it must be decomposed by bacteria and other living organisms and not pollute the environment. Generally, tapes are not biodegradable. However, there are a few types of tapes that are biodegradable i.e. Cellophane tape.

What Is An Eco-Friendly Tape?

Eco tape is environmentally friendly tape. An eco tape can perform all the functions of a regular tape; however, it is friendly to the environment because it can be recycled.

Some eco-friendly tape is made from Kraft paper, glass fiber, and natural rubber-based gum; however, some are made from paper and just gum.

Final Thoughts 

What makes an item bad for the environment is what they are made from. Many types of tape are made from plastic, and this is dangerous for the environment.

However, in recent times there have been productions of tapes that are eco-friendly, i.e. Tapes made from paper and cellulose.

These tapes are recyclable and biodegradable and this is because they are made from natural products. You can find paper tapes everywhere, however, cellophane tapes can be scarce to find.

More from eco-lifestyle: 

• Compostable vs Biodegradable Trash Bags Explained
• Do Biodegradable Tea Bags Have Plastic?
• 16 Zero Waste Alternatives For Your Home And Kitchen