Common questions asked by many as they go to recycle their cardboard packaging boxes is what happens to the packaging tape? And can this be recycled? As more and more people move to a more sustainable way of living these types of questions around packaging are becoming more frequent. Given the option, many consumers would rather have their items arrive in packaging that can all be recycled, rather than only just the cardboard box.
We’re lucky now that as technology advances, we’re also being offered more sustainable alternatives to traditional packaging items like plastic packing tape. In this article we’ve covered if and how packaging tape can be recycled along with highlighting some sustainable packaging tapes that you can start using yourself.
First things first, you’ll be wondering if standard packaging tape can actually be recycled? While traditional plastic tapes that contain PVC or polypropylene can’t be recycled, there are now some really good environmentally friendly packaging tapes available. A popular sustainable option is cellulose tape. Produced from cellulose, which is a plant-based material, this tape is better for the environment. While better for the environment another popular option available that can also be recycled, is paper tape.
Paper tape is just that – a tape produced from paper! Due to the natural materials used and that paper tapes are generally also backed with a natural rubber based adhesive, they’re a great option for those of you that are wanting to package your boxes with a tape that’s not only more sustainable, but also recyclable.
As it’s made from paper, paper tape can be recycled along with your normal recycling items like cardboard boxes and paper bags. This is also helpful for your customers as when they go to get rid of their packaging waste the tape can go in the home recycling bin along with the cardboard box their goods arrived in. This has both short-term and long-term benefits – less rubbish and plastic will be heading to landfills which will benefit the environment in the long run.
If you’re unsure that the type of paper tape you’re using is 100% recyclable it can be helpful to talk to the manufacturer to check what it’s made from. It can also be beneficial to read up on recycling regulations from your local Council which will clearly outline what should, and what shouldn’t, be recycled.
Websites like recycle.co.nz are also a great source of information around how recycling works in New Zealand and the different types of materials that can be recycled.
You may be wondering, what happens to my recycling once my paper tape goes in the bin, and where will my packaging materials go? While the area you live in will determine the day that your recycling is collected once it’s picked up, the recycling process should be pretty similar across New Zealand!
The recycling process can be broken down into the following steps.
Your recycling is picked up by your local Council and taken for sorting at a Materials Recovery Facility.
Recycling is sorted through and non-recyclable items like plastic bags, clothing, electronics and food scraps are removed. This makes sure that only recyclable materials are then recycled.
Recycling is then separated into relevant categories such as cardboard, paper, plastic and glass.
Once the final step is done, and your recycling is sorted, it’s often sold to make new products (both in New Zealand and in other countries). Paper that you recycle for example is then made into things like newsprint, writing paper, tissue, corrugated cardboard, egg cartons and fruit trays.
This helpful video explains the paper recycling process in more detail!
If you’re looking for sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic packaging tapes then you can’t go past paper tapes! Not only are paper tapes great for packaging things like cardboard boxes as the tape really sticks to the cardboard but as you now know, paper tape can also be easily recycled.
Our range of environmentally friendly and sustainable paper tapes include the following options, which can be ordered online or via our product catalogue.
Kraft paper packaging tape is made with hot melt adhesive. This tape is strong, flexible, static-free and tearable by hand, which makes it great for all of your general packaging requirements. This tape also gives immediate evidence in case of theft attempt (the tape will tear when removed).
Order paper packaging tape here >>
These Kraft paper tapes are formulated with the framing industry specifically in mind. Featuring great peel and adhesion, this tape sticks to both raw aged and clean timber surfaces. As well as being suitable for Framers, these tapes are also suitable for many packaging applications and are fully recyclable. The adhesive is designed to adhere to many types of cardboard and paper.
Order Framers paper tapes here >>
Gummed tape is a strong paper tape with a permanent adhesive that isn't sticky until you wet it. You can wet it with a gummed tape dispenser or a sponge also works well. The dispenser with reservoir and moisten brush works with gummed paper tapes up to 3" wide.
Using a packaging tape that’s a sustainable choice and better for the environment will not only make you feel better about shipping out goods to your customers, but they will feel great receiving packages that are packed in easily recycled materials!
For more information on the range of sustainable packaging products we supply you can download a free copy of our product catalogue here.
Or view a select range of our favourite sustainable workplace supplies by clicking below!