Barrier tapes and flutter tapes: Indispensable – but how harmful are they to the environment?
Are barrier tapes, flutter tapes and marking tapes an underestimated environmental problem?
Barrier tapes – also known as barrier tapes – have become an indispensable part of public spaces. They secure construction sites, guide visitors at events, mark danger zones, and help emergency services quickly cordon off accident scenes. Their function is clear: safety, orientation, and efficiency. But despite all their usefulness, the question is increasingly being raised: How environmentally damaging can these products actually be?
Areas of application and benefits of barrier tapes and flutter tapes
Barrier tapes, caution tapes or flagging tapes are used in many areas:
Construction sites and traffic: to mark dangerous or restricted areas
Events and activities: for visitor guidance and access control
Rescue operations: for rapid securing of accident or incident sites
Industry and Logistics: for marking storage areas or machine zones
Public space: at public events, sporting events or temporary closures
Their ease of use, high visibility and flexibility make flutter ribbons an indispensable tool – but often come at a high ecological price.
The downside: Environmental pollution caused by conventional barrier tapes and flutter tapes
Most conventional flagging tapes are made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) – plastics made from fossil fuels like petroleum. While these materials are robust and weather-resistant, they are not biodegradable. What does this mean specifically?
Petroleum plastic stays – for decades and longer
Polyethylene and polypropylene take an extremely long time to decompose in the environment. They don't decompose completely, but rather fragment into microplastics that accumulate in soils, waterways, and even the air.
Microplastics: Invisible danger
Microplastics are formed by the degradation of larger plastic particles – for example, due to UV light, mechanical stress, or weathering. These particles are smaller than 5 mm and enter:
in waters: via rain, wind or direct discharge
in soils: through littering, sewage sludge or agricultural use
into the air: through abrasion, combustion or industrial processes
Once in the environment, microplastics are ingested by animals, enter the food chain and can pose health risks to humans and animals – for example, through the accumulation of pollutants or hormone-active substances.
Littering: An underestimated problem
Flags are often used temporarily and are then not properly disposed of. They are left behind in the wild, blown away by the wind, or washed into waterways by rain. Littering, especially at events or construction sites, is a common cause of environmental pollution.
Alternatives to classic barrier tapes – materials and advantages
Paper barrier tapes
Paper barrier tapes are made from kraft paper or recycled paper. They are fully recyclable and score points for their ease of printing and low cost. However, they are less weather-resistant and are best suited for short-term use indoors or at events.
Extendable straps
Crowd control systems with retractable webbing are usually made of polyester in a stainless steel or plastic cassette. They are space-saving, robust, and ideal for indoor areas such as airports, banks, or trade fairs. Their advantages lie in their durability and professional appearance; however, they are less flexible for large outdoor areas.
Barrier chains
Barrier chains made of plastic or steel are a robust alternative to tapes. They are weatherproof, reusable, and easy to attach to posts. Their advantages: high stability and reusability. Disadvantages: They are heavier and less flexible for long distances.
Barriers and construction fences
For maximum safety, barriers or construction fences made of galvanized steel or aluminum are used. They are extremely durable and provide a physical barrier. Advantages: high safety and reusability. Disadvantages: high transport and installation costs as well as higher overall costs.
Traffic cones and pylons
Traffic cones made of PVC or recycled plastic are highly visible, sturdy, and stackable. They are suitable for short-term road closures or at events. Advantages: flexible and quick to deploy; disadvantages: require more storage space and are less suitable for long-term closures.
Bioplastic barrier tapes
Barrier tapes made from bioplastics consist of renewable raw materials such as cornstarch. They are 100% biodegradable, certified according to DIN EN 13432, and, unlike conventional barrier tapes, do not leave behind any permanent microplastics if left in nature. The major advantage: They offer the same functionality as conventional plastic tapes, are weatherproof, and can be individually printed – ideal for sustainable events and construction sites.
NaKu barrier tape made from bioplastic: The alternative
With the NaKu bioplastic marking tape, NaKu offers an innovative solution to an everyday environmental problem. The tape is made from starch and is 100% biodegradable according to DIN EN 13432.
✅ Compostable: No permanent microplastics, no long-term environmental impact
✅ Tear-resistant and weather-resistant: Functionality like conventional products
✅ GMO-free and pollutant-free: Safe for people and nature
✅ Can be individually printed: For events, companies or organizations
If the NaKu barrier tape is accidentally left in nature, it will decompose completely – a decisive advantage over conventional products that produce microplastics over decades.
Conclusion: Sustainability begins in the details
Barrier tape and barrier tape are small but effective tools in everyday life. However, their environmental impact is often underestimated. With NaKu barrier tape made of bioplastic, companies, event organizers, and organizations can make an active contribution to environmental protection – without sacrificing functionality.
Learn more about NaKu barrier tape here. NaKu marking tape can also be ordered directly from the online shop.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about barrier tapes
What is the difference between barrier tape, flutter tape and marking tape?
These terms are often used synonymously. "Barrier tape" is the most common term for temporary closures. "Curtain tape" usually describes light, fluttering tape used outdoors. "Marking tape" can also refer to floor markings or permanent markings.
Is the NaKu barrier tape really biodegradable?
Yes. The tape is made of starch-based bioplastic and is compostable according to DIN EN 13432.
Where can the organic flutter tape be used?
NaKu barrier tape is suitable for construction sites, events, rescue operations, agricultural applications, and anywhere temporary barriers are necessary. It is weatherproof, tear-resistant, and can be custom printed.
What happens if the tape is left lying in nature?
Unlike conventional plastic bands, the NaKu band decomposes completely. It leaves no harmful residues and does not contribute to microplastic pollution—a real benefit for the environment and wildlife.
Are there alternatives to classic plastic barrier tapes?
Yes, in addition to conventional PE or PP tapes, there are sustainable alternatives such as bioplastic tapes, paper tapes, or reusable systems like textile tapes and barrier chains. These solutions reduce plastic waste and are often reusable.
Are paper barrier tapes a good solution for outdoor use?
Paper tapes are recyclable and inexpensive, but are best suited for short-term indoor use or at events. They are less suitable for extended outdoor use because they are not weather-resistant.
What are the advantages of textile barrier tapes over disposable barrier tapes?
Textile barrier tapes are reusable, tear-resistant, and durable. They are ideal for events or industrial applications where barriers are needed regularly. The disadvantage: higher purchase costs and maintenance.
When are barrier chains or gates useful?
Barrier chains and gates offer maximum safety and stability. They are weatherproof and reusable, but are more suitable for permanent or large-scale barriers because they are heavier and less flexible.
Which solution is the most sustainable?
The most sustainable solution depends on the application. For temporary barriers, biodegradable tapes made of bioplastic are ideal. For recurring applications, textile tapes or barrier chains are the best choice, as they can be reused multiple times.
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