Latex Balloons Are NOT Plastic!
What ARE Latex Balloons Made Of?
Many people mistakenly believe that latex is a type of plastic but actually, it’s a different material altogether! Latex balloons are made from latex rubber which is a 100% natural product that comes from a ‘rubber tree’ also known as, ‘Hevea brasiliensis’.
The rubber tree is tapped for its white liquid sap, known as ‘latex’, which is then harvested into the bouncy rubber latex material that we all know and love. Since this process is gentle and does not damage the growth of the rubber tree, there is no risk of deforestation involved in this process. A rubber tree can be tapped for up to 30 years before it naturally reaches the end of its rubber production cycle.
Whilst there is such a thing as synthetic latex, it isn’t used in the production of balloons but rather in some paints and glues. Natural latex is the type of latex used in balloons.
Beautiful balloon work, using latex balloons, by BAPIA member Balloon Bouquets.
Due to the flexibility of latex rubber and its resistance to water and electrical charges, this material is used to make many popular products from safety equipment such as protective gear to household items like envelopes, wellington boots and children’s bouncy balls. Can you think of some other items made from natural rubber?
Disposing of Latex Balloons
As they are a natural, biodegradable product, latex balloons will decompose over time at which point their natural fibres return to the earth. Many studies have shown that the decomposition time for a latex balloon is roughly the same time as that of an oak leaf!
While latex balloons do biodegrade, the length of time they take to decompose will vary based on environmental conditions therefore it’s important to dispose of them correctly in the meantime.
When it comes to all types of balloons, here at BAPIA we support the PEBA (Pro Environmental Balloon Alliance) slogan, “Don’t Let It Go, Pin It & Bin It!’. So, once you are done enjoying your latex balloons, please carefully pin them in order to safely deflate and then dispose of them in the bin according to the instructions set by your local council. For more information on balloons and the environment click here and see this BAPIA Instagram post for cool ideas on ways to reuse foil balloons!
Remember, when we all balloon responsibly, the party never has to end!