The Push Toward Sustainable Cable Tie Manufacturing

Posted on December 8, 2025 Kyle Salem Electronics Parts

Commonly made from durable nylon, plastics, or metal, cable ties are employed as single-use items due to the fact that they must be cut to be removed. While they can serve long-term roles in bundling cables and supporting general hardware mounting tasks, global pressure is mounting to reduce plastic waste and move away from one-time-use items. In response, more manufacturers are exploring how to shift cable ties away from unsustainable materials and methods, so read on as we highlight some of the ways in which this transition is taking place.

Recycled Nylon

A pragmatic step in creating sustainable cable ties is the substitution of virgin nylon with recycled nylon. For instance, the company Panduit offers cable ties and mounts that use up to 100% recycled nylon. These recycled cable ties reportedly reduce the carbon footprint by up to 36% when compared with standard plastic cable ties, all while retaining expected industrial-grade performance and UV resistance. However, it is important to recognize that their environmental benefits are still highly dependent on responsible end-of-life disposal.

Biodegradable and Renewable Materials

Beyond recycling, some manufacturers are looking to abandon traditional plastic ties altogether. A notable example is FibreStrap, whose cable ties are composed primarily of renewable, plant-based material:

The length of the tie is made of kraft paper derived from sustainably managed Scandinavian forests.
The locking mechanism uses a bio-composite containing polylactic acid (PLA), hemp, and biodegradable polyester (PBAT).

According to FibreStrap, this design can achieve reductions in CO2 emissions and water consumption by 80 to 85%. In addition, the paper cord can be recycled with other fiber-based materials, and the bio-composite lock is biodegradable under appropriate composting conditions. That being said, their performance under moisture, heat, UV exposure, or heavy load conditions may be more limited. Similarly, users should concern themselves with having the appropriate channels to recycle them.

Reusable Cable Ties

Traditional cable ties can be used or reused for long periods of time. By carefully using a thin implement to depress the ratchet inside the tie’s locking mechanism, some users have successfully loosened and repurposed ties. However, this method is inconsistent and not recommended to do near wiring in high-stress or safety-sensitive systems. More than that, the locking mechanism is not likely to hold up well to multiple rounds of prying and refastening.

In response, several manufacturers have begun making cable ties with integrated release mechanisms. One such entity is HellermannTyton, who produces various releasable polyamide and polyurethane options, as well as soft hook-and-loop grip ties, all intended for repeated opening and closing. RETYZ also markets nylon releasable cable ties, which can be removed with a simple squeeze. As such, these variants are ideal for reuse and making layout adjustments.

Challenges and Trade-Offs in Using Sustainable Mounting Hardware

The movement toward sustainable cable tie manufacturing is not without practical challenges. As we briefly noted, one major setback regarding bio-based polymers is that they currently fail to match the thermal resistance, tensile strength, or ability to withstand environmental stressors needed in demanding industrial or outdoor applications. Moreover, sustainable options remain somewhat problematic if appropriate recycling infrastructure does not exist or people choose not to utilize it.

When evaluating whether you can comfortably use sustainable cable tie alternatives in a given application:

Determine if installations demand high-strength, UV resistant, or long-term connections, where traditional ties may remain the most reliable choice.
See if there is infrastructure for recycling or composting certain materials either near or readily-available to you.
Keep in mind that sustainable substitutes may involve higher upfront costs, which must be weighted against performance needs, budgets, long-term environmental goals, and regulatory pressures.

Find Various Types of Cable Ties on ASAP Semiconductor

In summary, through innovations in recycled materials, bio-based composition, and reusable mechanisms, cable tie manufacturing is trending toward greater sustainability. Whether by reducing carbon footprints, minimizing plastic waste, or introducing biodegradable alternatives, many entities are demonstrating that essential hardware does not need to come with substantial environmental costs. If you are looking for cable ties and other such hardware from industry-leading manufacturers, we have you covered on ASAP Semiconductor.

On our website, customers can access a wide range of part types, our selection including everything from industry-standard options to more sustainable alternatives. When you shop with us, you also benefit from: