You’ve swapped out your mailers and boxes for eco-friendly ones, love that for you. But what about the finishing touches? The stickers you brand with. The tape you seal with.
Are those truly sustainable? Or just looking the part?
Let’s break down what makes eco stickers and biodegradable tape the real deal, and how to spot the greenwashing.
What Should You Look for in Eco Stickers?
Eco stickers let brands showcase sustainability without compromising recyclability. Materials matter. Most regular stickers are plastic or vinyl. Eco versions are made with:
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Recycled or FSC-certified paper
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Compostable backing
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Plant-based adhesives
Bonus: Some use soy-based or algae inks instead of petroleum ones.
Tip: Always check for compostable certification (like BPI or EN 13432) if you want to label them as such.
How Can You Spot Greenwashing in Stickers?
Some stickers say “biodegradable” but only part of them breaks down. The liner or adhesive may still be plastic.
Avoid:
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Plastic sticker paper
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Acrylic-based glue
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Anything with glitter, foil, or gloss
What Types of Tape Are Truly Sustainable?
The most eco tape options are:
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Water-activated kraft paper tape
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Cellulose-based biodegradable tape
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Paper tape with natural rubber adhesive
These stick well, look clean, and don’t mess with your recyclable packaging.
Why Should You Avoid Plastic-Based Tape?
Even small amounts of plastic tape can lower the recyclability of your eco friendly boxes. Clear plastic tape (even “recycled” versions) can:
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Contaminate recycling streams
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Be non-compostable
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Stick around for decades
Even small pieces of plastic tape can ruin an otherwise recyclable box.
What Are the Best Alternatives for Eco Stickers and Tape?
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Use branded kraft paper tape for sealing
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Choose compostable stickers for labeling
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Keep your materials consistent — if the mailer is compostable, the sticker and tape should be too
Final Thoughts
Yes, eco stickers and biodegradable tape can be truly sustainable. But only if you’re choosing certified materials and staying clear of plastic-based imposters.
These small upgrades matter. They tie your packaging together, reinforce your values, and keep your brand genuinely green.
Need help finding the right finishing touches? Direct Source Procurement has compostable stickers, kraft tape, and other eco supplies that actually back up the label. Book a call with our team today.
FAQs
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What materials make stickers eco friendly?
Recycled or FSC-certified paper, compostable liners, and plant-based adhesives are the most sustainable options. -
Are biodegradable stickers and tapes really compostable?
Only if they carry certifications such as BPI or EN 13432. Some products labeled “biodegradable” may still contain plastic. -
Which type of tape is most sustainable for packaging?
Water-activated kraft paper tape, cellulose-based tape, and paper tape with natural rubber adhesive are the top choices. -
Why is plastic tape harmful for recycling?
Even small amounts of plastic tape can contaminate recycling streams and reduce the recyclability of cardboard boxes. -
Can eco stickers and tape help with brand perception?
Yes. Customers notice the details. Using compostable stickers and kraft tape reinforces your eco friendly values and builds trust.
