There has been a lot of discussion recently about the effect that plastic, particularly single use plastic, is having on the environment.
People sometimes think that our promotional balloons are made from plastic, whereas in fact they are made from Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) which is fully biodegradable.
Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) is collected from the Hevea Brasiliensis Pará rubber tree. They are grown in certain areas of the tropics and are fully sustainable.
A latex balloon begins to decompose from the moment it is manufactured and in contact with the natural elements. Decomposition is rapidly accelerated when the balloon is inflated and exposed to sunlight and oxygen.
This process of decay causes the balloon to oxidise. Oxidation begins within approximately one hour of inflation and is visible in some types of balloon as a cloudy or misty appearance.
In the same way that the wood from a tree will rot, a latex balloon is made from the sap of the tree and will disintegrate in the same way.
Our balloons are supplied by members of The National Association of Balloon Artists and Suppliers (NABAS) and the European Balloon and Party Council (EBPC). As such they follow a strict code of conduct to ensure a minimal impact on the environment.
We recommend that helium inflated balloons are weighted to prevent them from being inadvertently released and that air-filled balloons are tied to recyclable balloon sticks. A ‘don’t let go’ policy is recommended at all times.
Whilst latex balloons are 100% biodegradable, they should still be disposed of with household or commercial waste until such a time that your local authority can offer suitable composting facilities. Our balloon sticks are made of polypropylene and are also recyclable.