In 1961, 3M launched its iconic Scotch Magic Invisible Tape for the mass market, touting its virtual invisibility on paper and the first tape that could be written upon with pen or pencil.
The product, which was actually invented in 1930 and originally marketed as a moisture-proof wrap for bankers and grocers, became a hit in homes, offices and schools.
A half century and millions of rolls later, 3M is launching "Scotch Magic Eco-Friendly Tape."
Sold with a refillable dispenser, the made-in-the-USA tape contains 75 percent renewable or recycled materials and is billed as stronger than the original. The sticky side is made with a plant-based adhesive.
3M says after 50 years Scotch tape also sticks to its position as the No. 1 tape in offices and homes across the land.
"We want to stay relevant to our consumers, particularly the next generation of users that ranks environmental impact highly," said Pete Ley, a business unit manager in 3M's stationery division. "In the short term, our material costs will increase . . . As we consume more of the recycled raw materials, the production costs will decrease. That's our goal."
The green wave of recycled and plant-derived products is driven by rising energy and commodity prices, as well as consumer preference as companies move to recycle yesterday's "garbage" into everything from countertops made from recycled glass to pavers, roofing material and furniture from recycled plastics and tires.
Pepsi, first guzzled more than a century ago, has created what it says is the first plastic bottle made completely from plant-based materials. A test run is pending. Scott bath tissue makes a product from 50 percent recycled fiber.
