Recent publicity about the impact of single use plastics on the environment, has highlighted to us the fact that many people assume that balloons are plastic, when in fact, latex balloons are made from natural rubber!
Here are some of the key facts about natural rubber balloons:
Plastic Free
Balloons were invented 60 years before plastic was invented. They have been enjoyed for centuries as a fun and enchanting product, made from all natural resources.
Natural Rubber
Rubber balloons are made from Natural Rubber Latex (NRL), which is collected from the Hevea Brasiliensis, Pará rubber trees that are grown in certain areas of the tropics. The natural rubber is 'tapped' from the trees whilst they continue to grow (they are not cut down) over the tree's lifespan of approximately 40 years. NRL is therefore fully sustainable.
Manufactured Using Natural Compounds
Rubber balloons are manufactured using natural compounds. The process to strengthen the balloons requires sulphur, a naturally occurring material, and the dyes to colour the balloons are are also completely natural.
Decomposition
A rubber balloon begins to decompose from the moment it is manufactured and in contact with the elements. Decomposition is rapidly accelerated when the balloon is inflated and exposed to sunlight and oxygen. For this reason, we store all balloons in sealed containers and bags until they are required for printing, and then re-package them for distribution to our customers.
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.
Biodegradability
Recent independent tests confirmed that over a two year period, as much as 90% of a rubber balloon will have already biodegraded, an amazing statistic, and one which very few products can claim.
Complementary Products
In January 2019 we launched the world's first eco-friendly balloon holder, for the distribution of air-filled balloons as giveaways . Made from engineered fibreboard (paper), the BalloonGrip® replaces traditional plastic balloon sticks with a fully sustainable and recyclable alternative.
For more information, please speak to a member of our sales team who will be happy to discuss this with you in more detail.
