Environmental Impact Of Balloons

Here is some useful information for those concerned with the environmental impact of balloons

Don’t Let Go

We do not advise releasing balloons into the air. Foil balloons and balloon ribbon are not biodegradable and are harmful to animals. Latex balloons are biodegradable but take approx 6 months to decompose

Helium Shortage Myth-Buster

There have been many articles recently calling for a ban on balloons as it’s a “waste of helium.” The helium used for balloons is actually labelled “balloon gas” – the reason being that the balloon gas we buy is not pure helium. When helium is collected, the pure helium is allocated for medical use. The byproducts (impure helium) is sold as balloon gas. It’s interesting to consider that profiting from the leftover waste makes the pure helium more affordable for hospitals. However, as helium becomes harder to find, we often suggest making balloons into air filled designs and plan on selling DIY kits in the near future

Helium Dangers

There have also been videos of balloons exploding into flames, and people claiming helium is dangerous. Helium is not flammable, but hydrogen is. Using hydrogen for balloons has been banned worldwide, but in countries such as India it’s common for people to still use hydrogen

Recycling

Foil balloons can be refilled if used correctly. Alternatively, children can use foils and ribbon for art projects. As latex balloons are 100% biodegradable, they can be disposed of and will disintegrate in approx 6 months

For more information please visit https://balloonfacts.org/

Balloons & The Environment