As consumers look for more ways to go green, companies are working harder to create products that are environmentally friendly. Office supplies are essential for nearly every business and household. Using green products can make a big difference to the impact you have on the environment.
LoveToKnow editor Mary Audet spoke with Keri Warren, who has been the Marketing Communications Supervisor for 3M Company for 30 years. In this exclusive interview, they discuss 3M's commitment to green products and green living. 3M's Scotch Magic Greener Tape is the green version of a long-time favorite found in homes and offices across America.
3M Commitment to Green Interview with Keri Warren
Overton (LTK): What is your personal philosophy of Green Living?
Keri Warren (KW): Whenever I can incorporate green living into my lifestyle, I do. From cleaning products to food choices, I always think about how this impacts the environment and my family, and then make my choices from there!
Environmental Impact of Scotch Magic Greener Tape
LTK: What is the difference in the impact on the environment between regular scotch tape and Scotch Magic Greener tape?
KW: Scotch Magic Greener Tape, sold with a refillable dispenser, is made from more than 75 percent recycled or plant-based materials. This tape offers the same great performance of the original matte-finish Scotch Magic Tape, now in a more environmentally friendly version. Even before that, we'd worked to lighten our impact on the environment with things like reusable dispensers and refill packaging made from 100% recycled paper. We also have a partnership with TerraCycle, in which people can drop off Scotch tape dispensers and cores for TerraCycle to make into other consumer products like hanging planters and recycled fencing.
Inspiration for Eco Friendly Tape
LTK: What inspired the creation of eco friendly tape?
KW: Many Americans really are putting a priority on finding environmentally friendly solutions to the products they use and everyday tasks--no matter how big or small. That's why it's so exciting to be able to offer a greener version of the Scotch Magic Tape that people know, love and use on a daily basis. This is especially important at a time when people are really looking for those everyday things they can do to lessen their impact on the environment.
LTK: How long was this environmentally friendly tape in the planning stages?
KW: It was in the planning stages for a couple of years and we were happy to finally bring this product to the marketplace.
Making the World Greener
LTK: What is 3M's position on being more eco-friendly within the company itself?
KW: 3M's position on being eco-conscious is simple: we want to make products that help meet the needs of society today while respecting the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
LTK: Does 3M currently offer any other eco-friendly products?
KW: Yes, 3M does make a variety of additional green products. For the office there are products like
- Post-it 100% Recycled Notes and Scotch-Brite Greener Clean are items help with all kinds of cleaning chores
- Filtrete Water Station that filters water into BPA-free, reusable water bottles helps to save up to 3,000 plastic water bottles every year.
LTK: Are there any other eco-friendly products planned?
KW: While I can't share specifics about future products, sustainability is very important to Scotch Brand and 3M. It will continue to be a priority for us in the future.
Looking Toward the Future
3M Company is creating innovative ways for consumers to be more environmentally friendly both at home and at work. By recreating items that consumers have been using for years into green versions like Scotch Magic Greener Tape, the company has made eco-friendly living easier than ever.