The CS3D introduces a mandatory sustainability due diligence framework that will significantly impact adhesive tape manufacturers, suppliers and exporters to the E.U. Companies must track and verify supplier compliance, reduce environmental footprint and ensure fair labour practices in their sourcing. Those that adapt early with sustainable materials, verified supply chains and low-carbon production will gain a competitive advantage, while non-compliant businesses risk financial penalties, supply chain exclusion and reputational damage.
Primarily large adhesive tape businesses (LLCs with >1,000 employees and >€450M revenue) will be affected by the measures described below.
Supply chain due diligence obligations
Adhesive tape production relies on petrochemical-based adhesives, synthetic films (polypropylene, polyester), and natural rubber-based components. Companies must evaluate their entire supply chain to ensure compliance with human rights and environmental standards, particularly for raw materials like natural rubber, petrochemicals and adhesives. Suppliers must provide transparency on labour conditions, sustainable sourcing and regulatory compliance, or risk exclusion from E.U.-based supply chains. Key impacts:
- Rubber sourcing: If using natural rubber adhesives, companies must ensure a sustainable forestry supply chain (e.g. FSC certification).
- Petrochemical-based adhesives and plastic films: Suppliers must prove compliance with emissions reduction policies and ensure no human rights violations in manufacturing (e.g. for non-EU sourcing).
- Paper-based tapes: If producing gummed paper tapes or fibre-based adhesive tapes, companies must check that wood pulp sources follow E.U. deforestation regulations.
- Coatings and solvents: Adhesives and coatings often use chemicals regulated under REACH. Companies must verify suppliers meet E.U. chemical safety and worker protection standards.
Business adaptation strategies for adhesive tape companies
To stay competitive, adhesive tape businesses should conduct supply chain audits, integrate ESG policies and transition to bio-based adhesives and solvent-free solutions. Aligning with certifications (e.g. FSC, ISCC) and implementing supply chain transparency measures will help ensure compliance and secure long-term partnerships with E.U. clients.
Environmental and carbon footprint accountability
Under CS3D, companies must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across their operations and supply chains. For adhesive tape businesses, this means:
- Energy-intensive production: Many tapes require heat-intensive coating and curing processes. Companies must document emissions from manufacturing and set emission reduction targets.
- Solvent-based adhesives: Businesses will need to phase out high-VOC adhesives and shift towards solvent-free or water-based adhesives.
- Sustainable material development: Increased demand for biodegradable, recyclable or compostable adhesive tapes (e.g. PLA or bio-based adhesives) to comply with corporate sustainability goals.
Risk of business loss for non-compliance
Failure to implement CS3D-compliant due diligence may result in exclusion from E.U. supply chains, affecting contracts in packaging, automotive, electronics and medical industries. Companies that do not meet sustainability and human rights standards face legal penalties, fines and reputational damage, jeopardising their market position.
