Did you know that environmentally friendly balloons exist? They do, and we’ll tell you all about it.
Balloons symbolize celebration, but we should ensure they help us celebrate our milestones without harming the environment.
As we become more eco-conscious, we also extend this mindset to balloons. They are a sustainable alternative that captures the same essence of festivity while staying kind to the environment.
After our sweet Betty White’s 13th birthday party, we realized that even a year later, pieces of popped balloons were still deep in the grass outside. We realized that we had to find environmentally friendly alternatives to our celebrations. After all, we will celebrate milestones as much as possible.
What are Environmentally Friendly Balloons?
Environmentally friendly or biodegradable balloons are an eco-conscious alternative to traditional balloons.
They break down naturally over time through exposure to sunlight, moisture, and oxygen—returning to the earth without contributing to long-term pollution.
Eco-friendly balloons usually come in three types.
- Natural latex balloons.
- Biodegradable latex balloons.
- Organic cotton and wool felt balloons.
Why Should You Consider Environmentally Friendly Balloons?
The balloon industry generated approximately $1.8 billion in 2022 and is expected to generate nearly $2.5 billion by 2031. Consider the waste produced by these synthetic materials in our environment.
Have you ever participated in balloon releases? Not to burst your bubble (or balloon) here, but releasing balloons into the sky can harm animals and wildlife and cause power outages and fires. We live by the ocean, so it is especially important for us to protect marine life.
Marine life often thinks that balloons, especially mylar or foil balloons, are food or prey they can consume.
Where to Shop Environmentally Friendly Balloons
Now that we have piqued your interest in trying out some eco-friendly alternatives let’s discuss them and how you can get them if you still wish to go the balloon route.
Reusable Water Balloons
These reusable water balloons add an eco-friendly twist to outdoor fun. These are high-quality silicone balloons made from the latest upgraded magnetic technology. They’re designed to last for years of enjoyment without polluting the environment.
The best part? It’s so easy to fill the balloons. There is no splashing water or tying. All you have to do is soak them, and they’ll absorb the water in under a minute.
Biodegradable Balloons
An eco-friendly party decoration brand that places the environment as its top priority.
Made from natural latex, these environmentally friendly balloons are non-toxic and safe for kids.
They are thick, round, and available in 40+ colors, matching every theme for any celebration, indoors or outdoors.
Don’t release them because even biodegradable balloons take time to disintegrate when people release them. That will be enough time for them to cause damage.
Reusable Helium-Free Balloons
These balloons offer a durable version of environmentally friendly balloons. They are made with specially engineered plastics, fade-resistant technology, and specially pigmented polymers.
While we do not like to purchase plastic or recommend that anyone else invest in more plastic, it is a green alternative to traditional balloons.
Again, please do not release or leave them to blow around outdoors.
Latex Biodegradable Balloons
Another unique, eco-conscious brand manufactures long-lasting, durable balloons of natural latex from rubber trees.
Perfect for those minimal-loving decorators who want nude-colored, sleek decor for their occasions. Once they are used, you can still untie and reuse the knot.
We know this may not be the easiest, but it is better than discarding them for a one-time-use event.
Our Top Choice: Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Balloons
While we know most people think that balloons are the most festive way to decorate, we want to let you in on some alternatives that can eliminate the balloon piece altogether.
Pom-Poms
Pom-poms made from high-quality wood pulp are a vibrant (and eco-friendly) addition to your party decorations. They come in bright and nude colors. You can hang them from the ceiling, stick them to walls, or simply place them over the table.
And you’ll be excited to know how easy they are to clean. Just toss them in the laundry, and they’ll be new again!
Rice Paper Lanterns
These paper lanterns are whimsical and can be hung from trees or the ceiling in any party space. They are made of sturdy rice paper and can be reused repeatedly.
While we’re talking lanterns, we want to clarify that sky lanterns, even when made of paper, are still damaging to the environment and can cause similar hazards to balloons.
Imagine a flying fire-lit lantern in the sky being safe. They are not.
DIY Lantern
You can even make a DIY lantern from an old plastic bottle. This is a great way to repurpose plastic bottles.
Soy Wax Candles
Speaking of candles, soy wax candles like those from Southern Oak Artisan offer a beautiful aesthetic and are also available in reusable jars.
Ribbon Dancers
Not only are ribbon dancers, also known as ribbon streamers whiumsy and fun, they can be reused for so many occasions. If you don’t want to purchase them, you can make them yourself. All you need it some ribbon and a wooden stick. Tie the ribbon to the stick.
Everyone at the party can move them around at the same time for some beautiful images from your celebration.
Tea Lights in Glass Jars
It’s time to get creative. Grab those empty glass mason jars (pickle jars, baby food jars, spice jars, honey jars, or whatever you have) and add tea lights to each. Place them over the table for a sure-fire, magical addition to every occasion.
Use non-toxic candles, like soy wax candles, whenever possible. However, battery-operated candles will be a safer option if you have kids running around the party.
Custom Party Favor Decor
For a birthday party, we opted for custom party decor that was Post Malone-themed. These reusable favors have come in handy for pre-concert tailgating, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and just all-around fun times!
Balloons Blow
Okay, that was meant to be a joke—maybe a bad one—but still, we hope you will consider steering away from balloons altogether since there are so many celebratory alternatives.
Even so, if you want to have balloons at your event, try environmentally friendly balloons that cause less damage than traditional ones.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Please try to reuse them as much as possible. To reduce their environmental impact, completely deflate biodegradable balloons before discarding them. Please place them in your regular trash, as they will degrade over time in a landfill. Remember, do not release them.
Generally, eco-friendly balloons are a bit pricier due to the materials and production processes used. However, the environmental benefits often outweigh the cost difference. Maybe think of a turtle struggling to digest a balloon when it comes time to purchase. 🙁
Most balloon strings and ribbons are made from plastic, which is not biodegradable. If you use eco-friendly balloons, pair them with biodegradable twine or other natural fibers.
