#1 environmental choice for packaging tape:
I just picked up a roll of paper packaging tape made in the US from just kraft paper and starch based adhesive. it's easiest to repulp, recycle, and biodegrade. the starch comes from plants, potato, corn, etc.
it's a water activated adhesive, as in you have to wet it to get it to stick.
the roll doesn't stick to itself.
these are usually known as gummed paper tape,
the adhesives could be made from starch, or animal, or who knows what else if the company doesn't specify.
intertape brand (which also makes central brand) was one of the only brands i found that could specify starch based adhesive, and makes it in the US.
dick blick art supply was the only store i could find that carried this line of intertape.
it was $4.99 + tax for a 2" wide x 600' long roll.
other notes:
kraft paper is the general name for the brown paper used, not specific to anything else about the tape.
kraft paper is also sold in rolls for packaging wrapping or padding.
packing houses that use water activated tapes have a dispenser that wets the tape as it'd dispensed.
for home office use, it's a tiny inconvenience, a water spray bottle or bowl of water to dip fingers in, works.
most packaging tapes these days are the clear petroleum plastic kind. the tape industry is making a move towards less chemical and plastic options. they're looking into different technologies, but what also makes sense is looking back to what was used before plastic and petrochemicals.
click here to expand post, to see self adhesive and cellulose tape info.
