Biodegradable Balloons: Eco-Friendly Yet Impactful Displays
Your Questions Answered
Our air-filled latex balloon displays are one of the most eco-friendly ways to make a big impact for your corporate and private events. Below we answer your questions as to why.
Aren't balloons harmful to the environment?
Balloons have an unfavourable reputation due to people releasing helium balloons, causing littering and potential damage to wildlife. At Balloonista WE NEVER SUPPLY FOR BALLOON RELEASES.
Some balloons contain plastic. At Balloonista our air-filled displays only use 100% biodegradable latex balloons and ties. In cases where foil or plastic-based bubble balloons are requested, we can suggest alternatives or ensure high-quality reusable and recyclable stock.
Aren't balloons plastic?
The latex balloons we use are not made of plastic. Our suppliers utilise natural rubber called caoutchouc in their manufacturing process. Similar to tapping maple syrup from maple trees, caoutchouc is harvested as a milky sap from the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree and is a renewable and natural material. Throughout production, the preservation of this sustainable resource as well as contributing to the overall reduction of CO2 emissions is at the heart of all of our suppliers. Join us in embracing these biodegradable and environmentally-friendly latex balloons for guilt-free and planet-friendly celebrations.
Below is an info video from one of our reputable suppliers on rubber sap harvesting as well as here is the link to another one of our suppliers Gemar page where you can find out more about balloon impact on the environment.
Are balloons bad for the environment?
Contrary to popular opinion responsibly sourced and produced latex balloons are actually contributing to Reversing Climate Change.
At Balloonista, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices. We use latex balloons that are crafted with caoutchouc, a natural rubber latex derived from the Hevea Brasiliensis trees, also known as rubber trees. These broad-leaf trees are exceptional carbon sinks, effectively absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. Extensive analysis has revealed an average annual CO2 sequestration rate of over 36 tonnes per hectare. Additionally, our suppliers’ responsible manufacturing process, spanning from rubber plantation to the final production of latex balloons, saves an impressive 29 tons of carbon for every ton of biodegradable latex balloons. Join us in celebrating with balloons that not only bring joy but also contribute to a greener future.
So how should latex balloons be disposed of?
Balloonista’s air-filled latex installations generate minimal waste and naturally biodegrade when disposed of in the landfill. The small amount of debris remaining from your display can be safely disposed of with household waste. Latex, being a natural product, decomposes over time. (For reference, latex balloon material biodegrades at a rate similar to that of an oak leaf, weight-for-weight.)
How eco-friendly are your balloon installations?
Latex balloons, when properly used and disposed of, are an incredibly eco-friendly choice for corporate or private displays. Our air-filled installations consist of approximately 97% air and only 3% natural latex, allowing for a visually striking impact with a minimal amount of materials.
Where does the raw biodegradable latex balloon material come from?
Latex is derived from rubber trees, making it a renewable resource. These trees can produce sap for up to 30 years and harvest without damaging the tree, which in turn encourages tree planting and sustainable practices.
Are there any health risks associated with latex balloons?
Our latex balloons are non-toxic, ensuring safety for both the environment and human health.
Will my balloons blow away?
No! Air-filled balloons are far less likely to escape accidentally than helium-filled ones, thus reducing the risk of accidental littering. We also attach and anchor our displays very firmly so there is no risk of anything escaping, even on a windy day! Our displays are suitable for both outdoor and indoor events.
What are the benefits of choosing a balloon installation for my corporate event?
Corporate event sustainability and positive brand image: Opting for environmentally friendly options such as air-filled latex balloon displays demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainability and responsible environmental practices. This enhances a company’s reputation, attracting eco-conscious customers and stakeholders who appreciate such initiatives.
Maximum impact, minimal waste: Our air-filled installations consist of approximately 97% air and only 3% biodegradable latex. There is no better way to create a visually striking display using such a small amount of material.
What about helium balloons?
We also provide helium balloons. Our balloon bouquets and giant latex helium balloons are very popular and complement our air-filled installations perfectly. They can be customised with logos and personalised with messages. We use low-grade helium specifically for balloon use, derived as a waste product from medical use. Additionally, our foil and bubble balloon stock is refillable or recyclable via major supermarkets and Terracycle
Why should I choose balloons over other products like paper pom-poms?
Our balloon installations consist of approximately 97% air and only 3% product. This not only makes the display elements lighter and easier to transport but, importantly, they are weatherproof. While paper pom-poms may lose their appeal after exposure to rain or snow, our balloons remain intact.
How does the carbon footprint from producing and shipping balloons compare to other options like paper pom-poms?
The production of latex balloons requires energy for manufacturing from raw latex sap, as well as packing and transportation. However, this energy is easier to offset due to the minimal amount of product needed for each display. In contrast, paper products require cutting down trees or energy for recycling, whereas rubber trees are undamaged by latex sap collection for balloon production.
Balloons require minimal packaging and transportation, as they are supplied flat. At Balloonista, we recycle all packaging, and only 3% of our display requires transportation and packaging—the rest is air, added prior to installation. We also strive to source from nearby and eco-friendly suppliers.
How does the carbon footprint from producing and shipping balloons compare to other options like flowers?
The production of latex balloons requires energy for manufacturing from raw latex sap, as well as packing and transportation. However, this energy is easier to offset due to the minimal amount of product needed for each display. In contrast, flowers require growing, harvesting, and transporting which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Cultivation requires excessive water, fertilisers, and pesticides, impacting the environment. Transporting flowers consumes fuel, emits greenhouse gases, and involves extensive packaging, especially for long-distance shipments. Refrigeration for freshness during transportation adds to carbon emissions whereas rubber trees are undamaged by latex sap collection for balloon production.
Balloons require minimal packaging and transportation, as they are supplied flat. At Balloonista, we recycle all packaging, and only 3% of our display requires transportation and packaging—the rest is air, added prior to installation. We also strive to source from nearby and eco-friendly suppliers.
Surely fresh flowers would be the most eco-friendly option for a large display?
While fresh flowers may appear eco-friendly, they actually carry a significant carbon footprint. Growing, harvesting, and transporting flowers contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Cultivation requires excessive water, fertilisers, and pesticides, impacting the environment. Transporting flowers consumes fuel, emits greenhouse gases, and involves extensive packaging, especially for long-distance shipments. Refrigeration for freshness during transportation adds to carbon emissions. To reduce the carbon footprint, consider complementing a balloon installation with carefully selected flowers. Locally grown, seasonal flowers are the best. Alternatives like artificial or dried flowers can also be used to minimise environmental impact.
What are eco-friendly balloon alternatives for corporate and private events?
Nothing is more eco-friendly than latex balloons and air-filled displays if you consider the environmental impact of the materials used such as flower-holding materials, wire, single-use posters and much more.
In a world grappling with a mounting plastic waste crisis, we understand the significance of choosing eco-conscious alternatives for private and corporate events. The latex balloons we use are not made of plastic; instead, we take pride in sourcing suppliers who utilise caoutchouc natural rubber in their manufacturing process. Harvested as a milky sap from the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree, similar to tapping maple syrup from maple trees, caoutchouc is a renewable and natural material. Throughout production, our suppliers ensure the preservation of this sustainable resource, contributing to the overall reduction of CO2 emissions. Join us in embracing these biodegradable and environmentally-friendly latex balloons for guilt-free and planet-friendly celebrations.
Anything else I should know?
We take pride in being members of ‘One Percent for the Planet.’ One Percent of our revenue is donated to verified green projects and charities in the UK and Worldwide, focusing on sustainability and environmental protection locally as well as afar.
