Foil Balloons, Latex Balloons, and the Environment

Here's an important question. What effect do latex balloons and foil balloons have on the environment? The answer to this isn't exactly straightforward. As with everything, you should use latex balloon and foil balloon products responsibly.

Proper usage and disposal mostly depends on the type of balloons that you're using. You should treat latex balloons and foil balloons differently, depending on the situation. Read on to find out how to clean up after your event.

Latex Balloon Products

A latex balloon isn't made from plastic, as some might think. They are, in fact, harvested from many different species of plant. As a result, latex balloons are biodegradable. Latex harvesting methods are also not harmful to the plant source.

Latex, while unrecyclable, is still a renewable resource. And, as mentioned, latex balloons are fully biodegradable. A single latex balloon takes less than four years to completely decompose. Compared to many synthetic materials, this is very fast.

Foil Balloon Products

Foil balloons consist of a metalised polyester film. These are not as flexible as latex, and thus cannot expand in the same way. Due to this, a foil balloon can hold shapes better. As a result, letters, numbers, and other shapes are easier to make with foil balloons.

Unfortunately, a foil balloon doesn't biodegrade like latex does. The upside to this is that foil balloons can hold helium much longer than latex balloons. Additionally, if they're looked after, you can refill and use them several times.

Using Latex Balloons Responsibly

There are a few simple measures you can take to dispose of latex ballon products in proper fashion. For example, You should dispose of your latex balloons when you're finished with them.

Where possible, you should try to avoid releasing a latex balloon into the air. Releasing latex balloons may create problems for others down the line. Try to limit the amount you release, and pop any balloons you have finished using.You can turn this into a fun activity for kids by throwing a "popping party"! Simply collect the latex balloon scraps afterwards and be sure to throw them away.

Using Foil Balloons Responsibly

Wherever possible, you should never leave a foil balloon on the ground or release it. Foil balloons take years to biodegrade, and can thus become an environmental problem. Avoid mass foil balloon releases at all times. Not only are they illegal, they are massively damaging to the environment, as well. Keep this in mind before you decide to plan a mass release of foil balloons.

Things to Keep in Mind

Latex balloons are no more harmful to the environment than food waste or paper trash. But, you should still maintain a responsible attitude. Be sure to pick up and dispose of any latex balloon that you're finished with.

Foil balloons, though, can be very harmful. Always be sure to dispose of them as soon as you're finished with them. Being plastic, you can recycle a foil balloon as well.